Film producer Mukesh Bhatt has clarified that ‘Awarapan 2’ is being targeted for a May-June release window and has not been postponed due to competition from other big-ticket releases. Addressing speculation around the film’s scheduling, Bhatt said the decision was purely driven by pending work on the project and not out of concern over the release of ‘Dhurandhar Part 2’ or other films.

According to a PTI report, Bhatt dismissed media reports suggesting that ‘Awarapan 2’ was moved from its earlier proposed April 13 release date because ‘Dhurandhar Part 2’ and Yash-starrer ‘Toxic’ are slated to hit theatres on March 19. He emphasised that the team is focused on completing the film to the desired standard rather than rushing it to meet a specific date.

“We are not scared of releasing the film around any other big release. There is still work pending on ‘Awarapan 2’, and that is the only reason we are looking at a May–June window,” Bhatt was quoted as saying, reiterating that quality remains the priority for the makers.

‘Awarapan 2’ is the sequel to the 2007 action-romance drama ‘Awarapan’, which starred Emraan Hashmi in the lead and went on to achieve cult status over the years. The original film, directed by Mohit Suri, is still remembered for its music, intense narrative and Hashmi’s performance, leading to high expectations from the sequel.