Speculation is mounting around a potential third installment of the popular action franchise, Awarapan, after writer Bilal Siddiqui dropped a significant hint. This comes on the heels of Awarapan 2, starring Emraan Hashmi, becoming a blockbuster hit, crossing the ₹100 crore mark in India and over ₹150 crore globally within six days of its release.
Siddiqui confirmed that while no concrete plans are in place yet, discussions with producer Vishesh Bhatt are anticipated. "As for part three, Vishesh (Bhatt, the film’s producer) and I have not had time to speak beyond just a few messages after the film came out," Siddiqui stated. He expressed excitement about the prospect, hoping Bhatt would soon decide to move forward with the project.
Awarapan 2's Stellar Box Office Performance
The Nitin Kakkar-directed sequel has not only revitalized the franchise but also marked a career high for lead actor Emraan Hashmi. By Day 6, the film had collected ₹107.50 crore net in India and ₹128.62 crore gross domestically, with a worldwide gross reaching ₹153.59 crore. Despite a 16% dip on its sixth day, earning ₹6.75 crore net across 11,071 shows, the film maintained strong momentum after a record-breaking opening. Overseas markets contributed an additional ₹1.50 crore on Day 6, bringing the international total to ₹25.30 crore.
Produced on a reported budget of ₹45 crore, Awarapan 2 has more than doubled its cost in India alone, effectively repairing the legacy of the 2007 original. The first Awarapan, despite later achieving cult classic status, earned a mere ₹12 crore worldwide upon its release.
The Ending That Sets Up Awarapan 3
The sequel concludes with Shivam (Emraan Hashmi) successfully rescuing trafficked children from Zorawar. However, his actions lead him into the orbit of Nafisa (Shabana Azmi), who assisted him in exchange for future services. The final scene depicts Shivam joining Nafisa’s gang, leaving his journey explicitly open-ended and ripe for further exploration.
Siddiqui emphasized the crucial role of Shabana Azmi's character in shaping the potential future narrative. "She has that solid presence where, even if you don't see her on screen throughout the film, she is manipulating the character's journey without him even realising," he explained. "I think it was a very crucial role, and she's hopefully set up for greater things."
With Awarapan 2 receiving mixed-to-positive reviews but strong audience embrace, racing towards the ₹200 crore global mark, the stage appears set for another chapter.