And the wait is finally over. After nearly two decades, since Awarapan became a favourite among Emraan Hashmi fans, the franchise has returned with its second instalment. Awarapan 2 hit theatres today, August 14, with Emraan back as Shivam Pandit. While the first film was directed by Mohit Suri, the sequel has been helmed by Nitin Kakkar.
Needless to say, the songs are new, but Tera Mera Rishta and Toh Phir Aao have been recreated in the new Awarapan, and it is pure nostalgia.
Shriya Saran died in the first instalment. However, the second instalment has her cameo in the film. Disha Patani has a pivotal role in the film.
Emraan Hashmi's Shivam Pandit travels to Bangkok to rescue a little girl from human trafficking. The girl, whom he had raised, is kidnapped from an orphanage, giving Shivam Pandit a new purpose in life.
Shivam Pandit finds emotional support in Disha Patani's Zara, a trained cello player born into a gangster family and carrying her own share of ghosts from the past.
The story is predictable, and one can guess that he is out on a mission. Emraan Hashmi carries the film on his shoulders, right from the first scene. Awarapan 2 justifies the saying, "Akkha Bollywood ek taraf, Emraan Hashmi ek taraf."
With Emraan returning as the much-loved character, fans were quick to head to theatres and share their first reactions on X. While several viewers praised the film for its emotional moments, action and music, others felt the sequel failed to match the depth and impact of the original.
Fans praise Emraan Hashmi
Several viewers have shared positive reactions to Awarapan 2, with some calling it a worthy continuation of the original.
One fan praised the first half and wrote, "The first half is packed with intensity, emotion, action and a gripping atmosphere. The story keeps you hooked and builds the tension perfectly towards the interval."
Another fan appeared impressed by the sequel's connection to the original and wrote, "Emraan Hashmi mania begins!! This is how sequels should be made. A proper continuation of a cult classic will always hit harder than a random movie using a franchise name for clout."
Another wrote, "Awarapan 2: Some stories do not just end; they stay in your heart."
One more wrote, "#Awarapan2 is a good film with brilliant songs and strong nostalgia. A bit flat in places, but overall a satisfying watch. Emraan Hashmi is excellent. Not as emotional as Part 1, but still a solid film."
Meanwhile, many called the film dark and disappointing and felt that the charm of the first instalment was missing. Disha and Emraan lacked chemistry, but the songs and Emraan's dialogues kept fans at the edge of their seats. Other actors, including Ashutosh Rana, Shabana Azmi and Zorawar, have played their parts well.
If you have nothing else to do this Independence Day weekend, watch Awarapan 2 with your friends and family.
