Emraan Hashmi’s much-awaited action drama Awarapan 2 has been cleared for theatrical release after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) awarded it a UA 16+ certificate. However, the certification came with the condition that the makers implement nine modifications before the film reaches cinemas on August 14, 2026.
According to reports, the CBFC directed the filmmakers to tone down several scenes featuring intense violence, reduce the impact of certain abusive words, and modify sequences involving drug consumption. The Board also instructed the inclusion of anti-drug, anti-smoking, and child trafficking awareness disclaimers at appropriate points in the film.
The changes include shortening a few graphic action sequences, editing a scene depicting drug use, and making adjustments to subtitles and on-screen text. In total, the CBFC ordered approximately four minutes of deletions along with 20 seconds of replacements, resulting in a final approved runtime of 2 hours, 20 minutes and 20 seconds (140 minutes, 20 seconds).
The UA 16+ certification means that viewers aged 16 years and above can watch the film with parental guidance. The rating reflects the film’s mature themes, action, and intense sequences while allowing a wider theatrical audience than an adults-only certification.
Awarapan 2 serves as the sequel to the 2007 cult classic Awarapan, which remains one of Emraan Hashmi’s most celebrated films. The sequel stars Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, and other prominent actors, and has generated significant excitement among fans eager to revisit the franchise nearly two decades later.
With censorship formalities now complete, the film is set for its theatrical release on August 14, where it is expected to be one of the major Bollywood releases of the Independence Day weekend. Industry analysts believe the film’s nostalgic appeal, combined with Emraan Hashmi’s return to one of his most iconic franchises, could attract strong box office numbers despite the required edits.
