Emraan Hashmi returns as Shivam in 'Awarapan 2' trailer; CBFC clears sequel with UA 16+ rating

Ahead of its August 14 theatrical release, "Awarapan 2" has completed its censor formalities and unveiled its first full trailer. The Emraan Hashmi-starrer has received a UA 16+ certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after a series of modifications, while the trailer marks Hashmi's return as Shivam Pandit nearly two decades after the original Awarapan became a cult favourite.

According to the censor certificate dated August 5, 2026, the film has been granted a UA 16+ classification, making it suitable for viewers aged 16 and above with parental guidance. The certificate lists a final runtime of 140 minutes and 20 seconds (2 hours, 20 minutes and 20 seconds), with the film presented in Hindi along with English subtitles.

The certification, however, came after a series of modifications suggested by the CBFC. As per the board's directives, the makers were asked to include disclaimers related to drug use and child trafficking. The Hindi title was also incorporated, while anti-drug messages have been superimposed at multiple points in the film. A static anti-smoking warning has also been added.

The board further instructed the makers to replace certain objectionable words in both the audio and subtitles. Several violent sequences were toned down, including one scene in which the intensity of violence was reduced by 50 per cent. Some scenes depicting extreme violence were shortened, while a sequence showing drug snorting was also edited. The end credits were modified to match the film's music. In total, the CBFC ordered four minutes of deletions and 20 seconds of replacements before granting certification.

Alongside the certification, the makers released the official trailer of "Awarapan 2", bringing Emraan Hashmi back as Shivam Pandit in a darker and more intense chapter of the story. The trailer revisits Shivam's journey as he is driven by revenge and determined to settle old scores, regardless of the consequences. It also offers a glimpse of Disha Patani in an action-packed role, wielding guns and performing high-octane stunts, while Shabana Azmi appears to play the film's formidable antagonist. 

The sequel also stars Suvinder Vicky, Vijayant Kohli, Aniruddh Rawal and Atul Kumar. The original "Awarapan", released in 2007, went on to attain cult status over the years, making the sequel one of Emraan Hashmi's most anticipated projects. 

Speaking during a recent Instagram Live session, Hashmi also revealed that the original "Awarapan" will return to theatres as a prequel to the sequel. He said longtime fans would revisit Shivam's journey with fresh perspective after watching the new film, while younger audiences discovering the character through "Awarapan 2" would get an opportunity to experience the original story on the big screen. 

Presented by Mukesh Bhatt and Vishesh Films, "Awarapan 2" is a Vishesh Bhatt Production. Produced by Vishesh Bhatt, directed by Nitin Kakkar and written by Bilal Siddiqui, the film is scheduled to release in theatres on August 14, 2026.