Fans of the cult classic Awarapan will have to wait a little longer for its highly anticipated sequel. Vishesh Films has officially announced that the release of Awarapan 2, originally slated for April 3, 2026, is now postponed. The film is currently eyeing a new release window in May or June 2026.
The delay comes as a direct result of a serious on-set accident involving the film’s lead star, Emraan Hashmi. The actor sustained injuries while filming a high-octane action sequence, requiring immediate medical attention and a significant recovery period.
The incident occurred during the final leg of the film’s production. Reports indicate that Emraan Hashmi was performing a complex stunt when the mishap took place. The actor was immediately rushed to a local hospital where he underwent a successful surgery.
Medical professionals have advised the “Serial Kisser” turned action star to observe at least 45 days of strict bed rest. Crucially, the actor is prohibited from engaging in any strenuous physical activity or action sequences during this period. This recovery timeline has halted the remaining patchwork and promotional shoots, making the original April deadline impossible to meet.
As news of the postponement broke, industry corridors were rife with rumours. Many speculated that the makers were “ducking” the massive box office wave expected from Dhurandhar Part 2 and the highly anticipated release of Toxic on March 19, 2026.
However, veteran producer Mukesh Bhatt has stepped forward to dispel these claims. In a direct statement, Bhatt clarified that the decision to push the date is purely humanitarian and logistical, not a tactical move to avoid a clash.
“We are not worried about competition from Dhurandhar 2 or Toxic. Our franchise has its own loyal audience,” Mukesh Bhatt stated. “The delay is solely due to Emraan’s unfortunate accident. He has given his blood and sweat to this project, and his health is our priority. He needs 45 days of rest post-surgery before he can even think about an action set again.”
Awarapan 2 marks a significant shift for the franchise, aiming for a larger scale than its predecessor. The film is being directed by Nitin Kakkar, known for his nuanced storytelling in films like Filmistaan and Jawaani Jaaneman.
The sequel also introduces a fresh dynamic with Disha Patani joining the cast as the female lead. Insiders suggest that the chemistry between Emraan and Disha is one of the highlights of the film, supported by a haunting soundtrack—a staple of any Vishesh Films production.
The 45-day hiatus is mandatory for Emraan to regain full mobility. Since Awarapan 2 is touted as an “action-heavy emotional thriller,” the actor still has several key sequences to finish that require peak physical condition.
The production team has reportedly rearranged the schedule to finish scenes involving the supporting cast while Emraan recovers. Once the actor receives a clean bill of health from his surgeons, the team will resume the final schedule to ensure the film is ready for its new Summer 2026 launch.
While the delay is a setback, trade analysts believe a May or June release might actually benefit the film. This period aligns with the peak summer vacation season in India, traditionally a lucrative time for commercial cinema.
We wish Emraan Hashmi a speedy and full recovery. The wait for Awarapan 2 might be longer, but if the legacy of the first film is any indication, it will likely be worth it.
