More than two decades after Awara Paagal Deewana entertained audiences with its action, comedy and memorable characters, the 2002 hit is finally getting a sequel. Suniel Shetty has confirmed that the much-discussed follow-up is moving ahead and is expected to begin filming in early 2027.
The actor, who played the popular character Yeda Anna in the original film, shared the production update during an interview with Bollywood Hungama. His confirmation puts an end to months of speculation surrounding the return of the comedy franchise.
“The sequel is happening for sure. I think early next year for sure,” Suniel said. When asked whether he meant that the film would go on floors early next year, the actor replied, “Yeah yeah.”
The announcement is likely to excite fans who have been waiting to see the franchise return to the big screen. However, details about the sequel’s complete cast, director and storyline have not yet been officially announced.
Awara Paagal Deewana 2 Is Happening: Suniel Shetty Confirms Shooting Timeline
Suniel Shetty shared the update while discussing the second season of his business reality show, Bharat Ke Super Founders. During the conversation, he was asked about the sequel to Awara Paagal Deewana and confirmed that the project would move into production early next year.
The actor had previously hinted at the possibility of a sequel through a social media post earlier in 2026. However, he had not shared a concrete production timeline at the time. His latest statement is the clearest confirmation yet that the film is progressing.
While the sequel’s production window has now been indicated, the makers have not announced an exact shooting date or a theatrical release schedule. It is also not yet clear which actors from the original ensemble will return alongside Suniel.
Awara Paagal Deewana: Revisiting the 2002 Comedy Hit
Released in 2002, Awara Paagal Deewana was directed by Vikram Bhatt and produced by Firoz Nadiadwala. The action-comedy featured a large ensemble cast, including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Aftab Shivdasani, Paresh Rawal, Amrita Arora, Aarti Chhabria, Preeti Jhangiani, Supriya Pilgaonkar, Om Puri, Johnny Lever and Rahul Dev.
The film became popular for its combination of comedy, action and an ensemble of eccentric characters. Suniel’s portrayal of Yeda Anna was among its memorable elements, while Paresh Rawal’s comic performance and Akshay Kumar’s action-comedy timing also contributed to the film’s appeal.
The story revolved around a complicated diamond-related plot involving a gangster, a group of unlikely characters and a series of comic misunderstandings. Its ensemble format and fast-paced humour helped establish it as a popular comedy title from the early 2000s.
With Suniel now confirming the sequel, audiences will be keen to know whether the original characters will return and how the makers plan to take the story forward.
Suniel Shetty Talks About Welcome To The Jungle and Border 2
During the same conversation, Suniel also reflected on his recent projects and his experience in the film industry in 2026. He expressed satisfaction with the response to Welcome To The Jungle and also spoke about his appearance in Border 2.
Although his role in Border 2 was brief, the actor said he considered being part of the franchise a success. “I also had Border 2. I was there for one scene but I take that as a success as that’s finally our franchise,” he said.
Suniel also credited the success of the first season of Bharat Ke Super Founders as one of the reasons he was pleased with the year. The actor has been balancing his film commitments with his work in the business reality show.
Suniel Shetty Reveals His Upcoming Projects
Apart from the Awara Paagal Deewana sequel, Suniel has two other projects he is looking forward to: Hitman and Sabse Bada Rupaiya. The actor described them as films with different stories and scripts, although he did not reveal further details about their plots or production schedules.
Suniel also spoke about how his approach to selecting projects has evolved. He said he wants the films and brands he associates with to have a positive impact on people.
“Whether I choose my brands or movies or anything that I do, it should have a positive impact on people,” the actor said. He added that he wants his work to either provide entertainment or remain neutral without hurting anyone’s sentiments.
For now, the biggest update for fans is the confirmed production window for Awara Paagal Deewana’s sequel. With filming expected to begin in early 2027, further announcements about its cast, director and story are awaited.
