As excitement continues to build around Awarapan 2, fans are eagerly waiting to see Emraan Hashmi reprise his iconic role as Shivam Pandit nearly two decades after the original film became a cult classic. Scheduled to release on August 14, 2026, the sequel has already created massive buzz thanks to its nostalgic teaser, powerful music, and intense storyline.
While Emraan Hashmi has often been associated with romantic thrillers and earned the “serial kisser” tag during the early years of his career, his filmography tells a very different story. Over the last two decades, he has delivered several critically acclaimed performances across crime dramas, courtroom dramas, political thrillers, romantic films, and biographical stories.
If you’re counting down the days until Awarapan 2, here are six Emraan Hashmi movies before Awarapan 2 that perfectly showcase why he’s one of Bollywood’s most underrated performers.
1. Haq (2025)
One of Emraan Hashmi’s most mature performances came in Haq, a courtroom drama inspired by a landmark Supreme Court judgment involving triple talaq.
The story revolves around Shazia (Yami Gautam) and her husband, played by Emraan Hashmi. After secretly marrying another woman, his character divorces Shazia through triple talaq, leading to a powerful legal battle centered around justice, dignity, and women’s rights.
Unlike many of his earlier roles, Emraan portrays a morally complex character whose actions drive the emotional conflict throughout the film.
Why You Should Watch
- Powerful courtroom drama
- Socially relevant subject
- One of Emraan’s most layered performances
2. Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai (2010)
Widely regarded as one of the finest gangster dramas in Bollywood, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai explores the rise of Mumbai’s underworld during the 1970s and 1980s.
Emraan Hashmi plays Shoaib Khan, an ambitious gangster inspired by real-life underworld figures. Initially mentored by Sultan Mirza (Ajay Devgn), Shoaib eventually challenges his mentor’s empire, leading to a gripping power struggle.
His charismatic yet ruthless performance remains one of the highlights of the film.
Why You Should Watch
- Outstanding gangster drama
- Brilliant chemistry with Ajay Devgn
- One of Emraan’s career-best performances
3. Gangster (2006)
Directed by Anurag Basu, Gangster introduced audiences to a more emotional side of Emraan Hashmi.
He plays Akash Kapadia, a singer living in Seoul who falls in love with Simran (Kangana Ranaut). Their romance soon becomes entangled in a dangerous web involving gangster Daya (Shiney Ahuja).
The film beautifully blends romance, suspense, and emotional conflict while featuring one of Bollywood’s most memorable soundtracks.
Why You Should Watch
- Emotional love story
- Fantastic music album
- Career-defining role for Emraan
4. Jannat (2008)
If there’s one film that cemented Emraan Hashmi’s position as a bankable leading star, it’s Jannat.
He portrays Arjun Dixit, a small-time gambler obsessed with quick success and easy money. His life changes after falling in love with Zoya (Sonal Chauhan), but his growing involvement in match-fixing and organized crime threatens to destroy everything he values.
The film remains one of Bollywood’s most loved romantic crime dramas.
Why You Should Watch
- Memorable soundtrack
- Emotional storytelling
- Strong character development
5. Shanghai (2012)
One of the most underrated films in Emraan Hashmi’s career, Shanghai saw him step completely outside his comfort zone.
Playing Joginder Parmar, a local videographer, Emraan delivers an understated performance in this gripping political thriller directed by Dibakar Banerjee.
When a social activist is murdered in what authorities claim is an accident, Joginder possesses crucial evidence that could expose a political conspiracy.
His natural performance earned praise from critics and proved his versatility.
Why You Should Watch
- Critically acclaimed political thriller
- Unique role unlike his commercial films
- Outstanding ensemble cast
6. The Dirty Picture (2011)
Although Vidya Balan rightfully dominates the spotlight, The Dirty Picture also features one of Emraan Hashmi’s most restrained performances.
He plays Abraham, a filmmaker who initially criticizes actress Silk’s glamorous image but later recognizes her immense acting talent.
Their evolving relationship adds emotional depth to a story about fame, loneliness, and societal judgment.
The film went on to become both a critical and commercial blockbuster.
Why You Should Watch
- National Award-winning film
- Mature romantic drama
- Excellent supporting performance by Emraan
Why Emraan Hashmi Continues To Surprise Audiences
Although Bollywood often labeled him based on his romantic thrillers, Emraan Hashmi has consistently experimented with different genres throughout his career.
From courtroom dramas and political thrillers to gangster films and emotionally driven romances, he has built an impressive body of work that goes far beyond the “serial kisser” image.
With Awarapan 2 bringing back one of his most iconic characters, audiences are once again being reminded of the depth and versatility he brings to every role.
Final Verdict
Before watching Awarapan 2, revisiting these six films offers the perfect reminder of why Emraan Hashmi remains one of Bollywood’s most dependable performers.
Whether it’s the intensity of Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai, the emotional journey of Gangster, the realism of Shanghai, or the gripping courtroom drama of Haq, each film showcases a different side of the actor.
If Awarapan 2 lives up to expectations, it could become yet another memorable chapter in an already remarkable career.
FAQs
When is Awarapan 2 releasing?
Awarapan 2 is scheduled to release in theatres on August 14, 2026.
Which are the best Emraan Hashmi movies to watch before Awarapan 2?
Some of the best films include Haq, Gangster, Jannat, Shanghai, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai, and The Dirty Picture.
Who plays Shivam Pandit in Awarapan 2?
Emraan Hashmi reprises his iconic role as Shivam Pandit in the sequel.
Why is Awarapan considered a cult classic?
The original film earned a loyal fan following for its emotional storytelling, memorable soundtrack, powerful performances, and tragic love story.
