Producer Mukesh Bhatt has officially set the record straight regarding the highly anticipated sequel, ‘Awarapan 2’. Speaking on January 10, 2026, Bhatt clarified that the film is now being targeted for a May-June 2026 release window. The veteran filmmaker dismissed ongoing rumors that the movie was postponed to avoid a box-office clash with major titles like ‘Dhurandhar Part 2’ or Yash’s ‘Toxic’.
The producer emphasized that the shift from the initially proposed April 13 slot is entirely due to production requirements and the lead actor’s health, rather than fear of competition.
The primary cause for the rescheduling is an unexpected injury sustained by lead actor Emraan Hashmi. While filming a high-octane sequence, Hashmi met with an accident that required surgical intervention.
- Medical Rest: Following surgery, doctors have advised the actor to refrain from performing action scenes for 45 days.
- Remaining Schedule: Only one major filming block of 20 days remains, which is scheduled to take place in Malaysia in March. This final schedule consists of pivotal action sequences that can only be shot after Hashmi fully recovers.
Addressing the competitive landscape of early 2026, Bhatt was vocal about his confidence in the project. “We are not scared of releasing around any other big release,” he stated. While ‘Dhurandhar Part 2’—the sequel to the highest-earning Hindi film ever (₹840 crore)—is set to arrive on March 19 alongside Yash’s ‘Toxic’, the makers of Awarapan 2 are prioritizing quality over a hasty release.
Cast and Crew Details:
- Director: Nitin Kakkar (taking over from Mohit Suri).
- Writer: Bilal Siddiqui.
- Lead Cast: Emraan Hashmi returns as Shivam, alongside Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi.
The 2007 original, Awarapan, remains a cult classic known for its intense narrative and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. Emraan Hashmi recently noted that the sequel aims to honor this legacy, continuing the journey of his character, Shivam, in a story that blends dark crime with deep emotional conflicts.
By pushing the release to mid-year, the production house Vishesh Films ensures that the action choreography—a staple of the franchise—meets the high expectations of its massive global fandom.
Key Highlights:
- Release Timing: Awarapan 2 is now scheduled for May or June 2026, moving away from its original April release date.
- Injury Update: The delay is primarily due to lead actor Emraan Hashmi’s recent surgery, which requires a 45-day hiatus from action scenes.
- Final Shoot: The production team will head to Malaysia in March to complete the remaining 20 days of the film’s schedule.
- Competition: Mukesh Bhatt clarified that the decision was not influenced by the March 19 release of Dhurandhar Part 2 or Toxic.