Seventeen years after Awarapan became a cult favourite, Emraan Hashmi is back as Shivam Pandit.
The trailer for Awarapan 2 is finally here, but it has sparked a wave of mixed reactions online.
While fans are happy to see Emraan return to one of his most-loved characters, many believe the sequel struggles to recreate the emotional intensity and music that made the 2007 film so special.
The trailer offers glimpses of an older Shivam but reveals very little about where his journey has led.
Apart from a few action shots, rain-soaked visuals and his brooding presence, the trailer keeps its cards close to its chest.
For some viewers, that mystery works. For many others, it simply leaves them underwhelmed.
Social media has been flooded with comparisons to the original.
A large section of fans feels the trailer lacks the signature Awarapan vibe that turned the first film into a cult classic over the years.
Others pointed out that the background score fails to create the same emotional impact.
Emraan Hashmi’s return has received praise, with many admitting that his screen presence still stands out.
Disha Patani’s appearance has also become a talking point.
While she is shown handling guns and participating in action sequences, many viewers believe the trailer doesn’t give her enough substance beyond stylish visuals.
Shabana Azmi’s mysterious role has intrigued some, though others feel her brief appearance doesn’t leave a strong impression.
Newcomer Puran Gabbi, who plays Zorawar, is among the few characters generating curiosity.
One of the biggest discussions online revolves around whether Awarapan even needed a sequel.
The original ended on an emotional note that many fans considered perfect.
Several viewers feel revisiting Shivam’s story risks taking away from the impact of the first film, while others are willing to give the sequel a chance.
Directed by Nitin Kakkar, Awarapan 2 stars Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, Puran Gabbi, Anirudh Rawal, Surendar Vicky, Vijayant Kohli and Atul Kumar.
It is scheduled to be released in cinemas on August 14, 2026.
