Filmmaker Mohit Suri’s 2007 film Awarapan, starring Emraan Hashmi, Shriya Saran and Mrinalini Sharma, underperformed at the box office upon release but eventually developed a cult following. Now, almost two decades later, its sequel is set to hit theatres. In an interview with Pinkvilla, Shriya recalled being disheartened by the film’s initial box office performance and revealed that she was not even invited to some award shows despite the film receiving nominations.
Shriya Saran on Awarapan’s failure
Shriya said, “When the film came out, we all had lots of hopes for it. But I don’t know why; I think it was ahead of its time. It was even nominated in some award shows, and they didn’t send me an invite. It was like that. And Awarapan is a movie which I felt would be celebrated; people would love it. So when something like that happens, you kind of feel very disheartened.”
The actor also reflected on the film’s enduring popularity, noting that audiences continued to tell her how much they loved it despite its initial box office performance. She added, “So then, for the longest time, I thought maybe it was the songs they loved, because the songs were amazing and Emraan was amazing. But now, you know, I feel like people loved the story. They kind of felt it. Because it’s a very intense, intense story. So people really felt it. Otherwise, the amount of love they’re still giving it, the amount they’re giving to it even now, it wouldn’t be like that. It wouldn’t be.”
About Awarapan and Awarapan 2
Awarapan is a 2007 Hindi romantic action drama directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt. Starring Emraan Hashmi, Mrinalini Sharma and Shriya Saran, the film follows Shivam Pandit, a troubled gangster whose life begins to change when he is asked to keep watch over a Pakistani woman, Aaliyah. Although Awarapan did not perform strongly at the box office upon release, it developed a loyal following over the years. Its music, particularly songs such as Toh Phir Aao, Tera Mera Rishta and Mahiya, became popular and contributed to the film’s lasting appeal.
Almost two decades later, the film’s sequel is set to release in theatres. Directed by Nitin Kakkar, Awarapan 2 stars Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi in lead roles. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on August 14 and will clash with Sunny Deol’s Batwara 1947.