Mumbai: After weeks of speculation around its release date, Awarapan 2 has finally found clarity. Mukesh Bhatt, the producer of the film has confirmed that the long awaited sequel will be released in May or June 2026, thereby ending rumours that the film was moved because of competition with other big releases such as Dhurandhar Part 2 and Yash starrer Toxic.
The film, which marks the return of Emraan Hashmi in one of his most loved roles, was earlier reported to be eyeing an April release. Bhatt has however clarified that the transition has nothing to do with box office strategy and all to do with real production constraints.
Delay Linked to Emraan Hashmi’s Injury, Not Box Office Fear
Speaking to PTI, Mukesh Bhatt revealed that the delay was caused by an unexpected accident involving Emraan Hashmi during the shoot. The actor had to undergo surgery and has been advised to avoid action sequences in the next 45 days. As much of the movie entails high-energy action scenes, the producers chose to take a break during that section of the filming rather than hurry it.
Bhatt firmly dismissed the idea that the team was worried about clashing with other films. He has made it clear that he is not afraid of Dhurandhar 2 or Toxic and that it is all about doing the film right rather than meeting an artificial deadline.
According to the producer, only one shooting schedule remains, which will take place in Malaysia and is expected to last around 20 days. This is the final schedule involving main action sequences and will be taken at such a time when Emraan Hashmi is completely recovered and is given a medical green light to play stunts.
Makers Choose Quality Over Rushing the Release
In response to reports that Awarapan 2 has shifted its initial proposed release date of April 13 because of the congested release schedule, Bhatt clarified that such claims are incorrect. He stressed that the team wants to deliver the film at the right quality level and is not interested in cutting corners just to avoid competition.
With major films like Dhurandhar Part 2 and Toxic scheduled for March 19, industry chatter had suggested strategic postponement. Bhatt, however, reiterated that the decision was purely creative and logistical, driven by pending work and the well-being of the lead actor.
About Awarapan 2: Cast, Story and What to Expect
Awarapan 2 is the sequel to the 2007 cult action-romance film Awarapan, which starred Emraan Hashmi and was directed by Mohit Suri. The original film has over the years found a cult following behind the emotional depth, the intense storytelling, the soulful music, and the strong performance of Hashmi as Shivam.
The sequel brings Emraan Hashmi back to this universe, with Nitin Kakkar directing and Bilal Siddiqui handling the writing. The film is reported to feature Disha Patani and veteran actor Shabana Azmi in prominent roles. Although the makers are yet to reveal the plot details, Awarapan 2 will likely build upon the emotional and action-driven universe of the first part, albeit with the same darker, more intense tone.
With most of the film already completed and only one schedule left, Awarapan 2 is now firmly on track for a mid-2026 release, giving fans something solid to look forward to after years of anticipation.
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