Emraan Hashmi on why Awarapan 2 took so long: 'A sequel needs to be worthy'

Awarapan 2 is highly anticipated, and fans have high expectations for the sequel due to the original's cult status, Emraan Hashmi's iconic music-driven romance brand, and the promise of a gritty thriller continuing the legacy with strong performances. But it took almost 19 years for Awarapan 2 to go on the floors since the 2007 film, Awarapan. Recently, Emraan shared why Awarapan 2 took so long. 

Why did Awarapan 2 take so long?

Speaking to Mans World India, Emraan Hashmi opened up about his upcoming action-romance film, Awarapan 2. Reflecting on why it took almost 19 years, Emraan said, "I was holding off for the longest as a sequel needs to be worthy of the first one, and I was waiting for a good script. But Bilal [writer Bilal Siddiqi] got a great subject and once we read it, we decided to go ahead." 

Did Emraan Hashmi's look from Awarapan 2 leak?

Yes, leaked photos and videos of Emraan Hashmi's rugged, long-haired look from the sets of Awarapan 2 went viral in late December 2025. This created tension and increased security on the sets in Rajasthan to prevent further unauthorised glimpses of the sequel's production. The leaked pictures show Hashmi in an intense, battle-worn avatar, hinting at a darker, more evolved version of his religious character.

The viral images created a buzz among fans, reminding them of the original film, but also forcing the production to beef up security to protect their content.

“After the photos were leaked, access had to be tightened. Phones are now restricted on set, and movement around the location is being closely monitored; certain areas have been cordoned off. Multiple terrace-sequence videos were leaked by locals," a Mid-Day report mentioned earlier. 

The source also mentioned that the team behind the film is focusing more on the story and music than on the controversy. The original composer, Pritam, is back in the film. It is reported that the producers are following all legal regulations and have expressed surprise at the rumours. The shooting is progressing rapidly, and the police are ensuring security on the set.

What are the actors in Awarapan 2?

Awarapan 2 is the upcoming Hindi sequel to the 2007 cult hit, with Emraan Hashmi returning as Shivam. The film also stars Disha Patani as the female lead and features Shabana Azmi in a key role. 

Directed by Nitin Kakkar and produced by Vishesh Films, the sequel will offer a mix of action, romance, and emotional drama, continuing the gritty gangster backdrop that made the original movie memorable. 

ALSO READ: Emraan Hashmi drops major update on Awarapan 2: 'It's got crazy music and intense scenes'

What are the upcoming projects of Emraan Hashmi?

Meanwhile, apart from Awarapan 2, Emraan will be seen in Netflix's upcoming crime thriller series, Taskaree: The Smuggler's Web. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the series will be released on January 14, 2026.

Emraan, who was last seen in Haq, also has Gunmaaster G9, which will see him reunite with Himesh Reshammiya and G2 (Goodachari 2).

Awarapan 2 FAQs:

Q: Is Awarapan 2 a sequel to the 2007 film?

A: Awarapan 2 is a direct continuation of the first film. It picks up the story of Shivam Pandit many years after the original events, exploring how he survived and evolved after the tragic ending of the 2007 cult classic.

Q: When is Awarapan 2 releasing in theatres?

A: Awarapan 2 was scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 3, 2026, but later reports claimed that it is likely to be postponed to avoid box office clash with Dhurandhar 2 and Toxic. 

Q: Who directs Awarapan 2?

A: Awarapan 2 is being directed by Nitin Kakkar.