Is ‘Awarapan 3’ on the Horizon? Writer Bilal Siddiqui Addresses the Future of the Cult Franchise

Following the successful release of the Emraan Hashmi-starrer Awarapan 2, fans of the iconic 2007 crime drama are already speculating about the possibility of a third installment. Writer Bilal Siddiqui, the creative force behind the screenplay, has finally opened up about the potential for Shivam’s journey to continue on the big screen.

The Door Remains Open

While the conclusion of Awarapan 2 was intentionally crafted to leave room for future narratives, Siddiqui clarified that there is currently no active development on a third chapter.

"I think Vishesh [Bhatt, producer] set up part two in the ending in a way that he can take it forward if he wishes to," Siddiqui shared in an interview with India Today. "We are waiting to hear from him and what his plans are. While I am sure fans would love to see more of Shivam, there is no story as such just yet. No one has started work on that."

Despite the lack of a formal script, the writer remains optimistic, noting that the immense fan affection for the character of Shivam remains a powerful catalyst for the franchise’s potential return.

A Labor of Love

For Siddiqui, penning the sequel was a task born out of deep respect for the original cult classic. He admitted that stepping into the world of Awarapan came with significant pressure. "I’m on the side of the fans who wanted Shivam to be revived," he explained. "It was a big responsibility—how do we take the story ahead?"

The writing process was anything but rushed. The team spent nearly a year in intense creative sessions, deliberating on various narrative arcs before finalizing the screenplay. This meticulous preparation appears to have paid off, as the film has received an encouraging response from both critics and long-time fans.

A Modern Take on a Classic Archetype

Director Nitin Kakkar and Siddiqui sought to modernize the franchise while keeping its gritty soul intact. Unlike the original, which allowed for moments of quiet reflection, Awarapan 2 was designed as a "breathtaking page-turner."

"We knew it was a crime drama with a lead character who hasn’t moved on from a past lover," said Siddiqui. "We wanted to tell a contemporary, fresh story that moves at breakneck speed. That sense of urgency is what we believe pulled in a younger audience."

Since its release on August 14, the film has been performing well at the box office, proving that the Awarapan 3 discussions are a testament to the enduring legacy of the franchise. While the creative team—including Emraan Hashmi, Vishesh Bhatt, and Nitin Kakkar—celebrates the current success, fans will have to wait for an official word from the producers before knowing if Shivam will return for another round of action.