Awarapan 2 opens to packed houses; Emraan Hashmi hailed as ‘smash hit’

The Story in Brief

Awarapan 2, the sequel to the 2007 cult classic, released in theatres on August 14 and has drawn strong early reactions. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh gave it a four-star rating, calling it a 'smash-hit'. Fans and critics on social media have praised Emraan Hashmi's return as Shivam Pandit, with many calling the film a 'definitive blockbuster'. Actor Suvinder Vicky, who plays Jaideep in the film, told Variety India that sharing screen space with veterans like Shabana Azmi made the set feel relaxed rather than pressured. He described Azmi's presence as having a 'noor' or radiance that comes with experience.

Directed by Nitin Kakkar and backed by Vishesh Films, the sequel picks up after the first film's ending. Shivam rescues a baby girl he names Aliyah after his deceased love, only to learn she is being forced into a child trafficking ring run by Zorawar's gang. The film also stars Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi. A review from Hindustan Times gave 3.5 stars, calling it a 'nostalgia-driven crime romance' that brings back the brooding hero and music of the 2000s, though it noted the pace dips in stretches due to repetitive gunfights.