A Sequel Nineteen Years in the Making
The 2007 film 'Awarapan' may not have been a blockbuster on release, but it achieved a rare and powerful cult status over the years, celebrated for its emotional depth, memorable music, and Emraan Hashmi’s restrained performance. For years, fans have clamoured
for a sequel. Now, their wait is over. 'Awarapan 2' released on August 14, 2026, continuing the story of gangster Shivam Pandit. The sequel, which has already become a major commercial success, sees Shivam pulled back into the world of international crime, embarking on a quest for revenge that spans across Southeast Asia. While the original was directed by Mohit Suri, the new instalment is helmed by Nitin Kakkar, with producer Vishesh Bhatt explaining the change was an organic evolution for the franchise as Suri was occupied with another project.
From Bangkok to Bukit Bintang
To reflect the international scale of Shivam's new journey, the production team mapped out an ambitious multi-country shooting schedule that included Thailand, India, and Malaysia. Principal photography began in September 2025 and concluded in June 2026. While key sequences were shot in Bangkok and Rajasthan, the final three-week schedule took place in Kuala Lumpur in March 2026. The cast and crew were spotted filming in several iconic locations, most notably the city’s vibrant heart: Bukit Bintang. This bustling shopping and entertainment district served as a dynamic backdrop for major street scenes and action sequences.
Why Kuala Lumpur Steals the Scene
The choice of Bukit Bintang is a deliberate one. Known as the pulse of Kuala Lumpur, its modern architecture, energetic nightlife, and cosmopolitan crowds offer a visually rich setting perfect for a contemporary action thriller. Filming specifically took place around the landmark Pavilion Kuala Lumpur mall and its busy intersections, leveraging the area’s cyberpunk aesthetic for high-stakes scenes. The use of Kuala Lumpur isn't just about pretty pictures; it’s a strategic move that aligns with a long-standing trend. Malaysia has become a favoured destination for Indian filmmakers for decades, a relationship that benefits both industries.
Bollywood's Enduring Malaysian Connection
Malaysia has played host to numerous Bollywood blockbusters over the years. Shah Rukh Khan’s 'Don' (2006) and 'Don 2' (2011) famously used locations like the Petronas Twin Towers and Malacca Prison. The Tamil superstar Rajinikanth's 'Kabali' (2016) was shot almost entirely in Malaysia, leading to a surge in tourism. This connection is fostered by a shared cultural affinity and a significant Indian diaspora in Malaysia. For filmmakers, the country offers diverse landscapes—from dense jungles to ultra-modern cityscapes—and production incentives, making it an attractive and practical choice for international shoots.
A New Chapter for Shivam Pandit
'Awarapan 2' brings back Emraan Hashmi as the brooding hero, joined by Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi in a pivotal antagonistic role. The story picks up where the first film left off, exploring themes of rage and revenge more than love and loss. The decision to film in locations like Bukit Bintang underscores the sequel's larger scale and ambition. By placing a beloved character in a fresh, international setting, the filmmakers signal a new, globally-minded vision for the franchise, one that has already paid off handsomely at the box office, becoming one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of 2026.
