'No story yet': Writer Bilal Siddiqui on 'Awarapan 3'
What's the story
Despite the positive response to Emraan Hashmi's Awarapan 2, writer Bilal Siddiqui has revealed that there is no story yet for a potential third installment. In an interview with India Today, he said, "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." However, no work has begun on Awarapan 3.
Sequel potential
Siddiqui on 'Awarapan 3'
Siddiqui said, "I think we're waiting to hear from him and what his plans are."
"And I'm sure the fans love the character of Shivam so much that they will want to see him in another part. That's kind of the overall thoughts I had in mind about where part three, or what part three, can be."
"But there's no story as such just yet. No one has started work on that just yet."
Creative process
Siddiqui approached 'Awarapan 2' as a fan
Siddiqui said he approached the sequel from a fan's perspective. "I'm actually on the side of the fans who wanted Shivam to be revived and see his journey continue."
He added that Bhatt had a clear vision for Awarapan 2, which he followed. "It was Vishesh who led that ship as a producer and, creatively, had a certain vision of what Awarapan should be like before I wrote it and Nitin directed it."
Franchise connection
How fan input shaped 'Awarapan 2'
Siddiqui revealed his connection to the Awarapan franchise. "I was a big fan of part one and knew I wanted to see a part two, even if it wasn't me working on it."
He also acknowledged fan input in shaping Awarapan 2. "Fans definitely had a big part to play. I, being a fan myself, knew that I wanted some moments that had to be there for sure, which is Tera Mera Rishta Purana, that song...the way it plays out."
Character introduction
On introducing Shivam in the sequel
Siddiqui said his strategy for introducing Shivam in Awarapan 2 was to place him in a new world while maintaining his growth from the first film.
"It was just about bringing that character into a new world and seeing what journey he has to take on."
"So, in part one...it's a guy who fought for love. But I'm hoping that he has been created as a man of God who is going to take on bigger missions in the future."
Audience reaction
Response from Gen Z to 'Awarapan 2'
Siddiqui was pleased with the audience's reaction to Awarapan 2, especially their nostalgic moments.
He said he was thrilled to see younger viewers respond positively without the makers specifically targeting them.
"It's nice that Gen Z, as we put it, have liked the film, even if they may not have seen part one." "Because I think it's done its job as a standalone film in that regard."
The film, directed by Nitin Kakkar, was released on August 14.