Nitin Kakkar’s Awarapan 2 brings Emraan Hashmi back as Shivam Pandit, nearly twenty years after the original turned into a cult favorite. Honestly, this isn’t really a typical sequel—it feels more like a reunion for Hashmi fans who remember his most memorable role. Shivam’s still trying to outrun the grief that’s been eating away at him since he lost Aaliyah (Shriya Saran). He ends up in the middle of a child trafficking ring after saving a little girl and names her after his lost love. That kicks things off, pushing Shivam deep into Bangkok’s criminal underbelly, where he’s not just fighting the bad guys—he’s battling his own old wounds.
What really holds the film together is Hashmi. He slips right back into Shivam’s shoes, bringing that intensity that made the first movie so haunting. Even when the story drags or falls into clichés, you stick around for him. He has this chemistry with the orphan girl that gives the film real heart. Disha Patani, playing Zara, looks the part and brings some softness but honestly, her character doesn’t get enough room to breathe. On the other hand, Shabana Azmi and Suvinder Vicky show up and add some real weight to the supporting cast, while Puran Gabbi makes for a memorable villain.
And the music—yeah, it taps right back into that mid-2000s vibe. Remixes of “Toh Phir Aao” and “Tera Mera Rishta” instantly take you back. The newer songs like “Piya” and “Laado” don’t disappoint either. The soundtrack isn’t just window dressing—it’s the film’s emotional engine, just like it was for the first one.
Looks-wise, Awarapan 2 feels slick and modern. Shooting in Bangkok gives it a restless, neon-soaked energy and the action scenes feel sharp. But let’s be real—the story isn’t about to surprise anyone. It’s all the familiar beats: redemption, undercover stings, sacrifices. Critics are right when they say the movie leans heavy on nostalgia instead of blazing new trails. Still, it captures that moody, haunted feeling that made Shivam who he is. It doesn’t reinvent anything—but it doesn’t really have to.
If you grew up rooting for Hashmi’s rebellious anti-heroes, this is a nostalgia trip worth taking. If you’re new to this universe, some things may feel a bit old-fashioned but the emotions and the music keep you invested. Awarapan 2 isn’t perfect—far from it—but it is genuinely heartfelt. It delivers great performances and a bittersweet mix of romance, action and longing that makes it worth a watch for longtime fans.
(The author is a budding journalist. Views expressed are personal.)