Suneel Darshan Reflects on ‘Jaanwar’s’ Regional Success, Introduces Aayush Kumar as Lead in 'Andaaz 2'
Image credit: IANS
Mumbai | July 3, 2025 —Veteran filmmaker Suneel Darshan, known for crafting emotional blockbusters in the early 2000s, has revisited the journey of his 1999 hit film ‘Jaanwar’, shedding light on how it was received across India — and what Bollywood’s elite often overlook. In a recent interview with IANS, Darshan revealed that while Mumbai-based critics dismissed the film upon release, audiences across India embraced it, particularly in rural belts like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
The director-producer also confirmed that his long-awaited project ‘Andaaz 2’ is in the works, featuring debutant Aayush Kumar in the lead role of Aarav, a passionate musician navigating ambition and romance.
‘Jaanwar’ Was Dismissed by Critics but Loved by the Heartland, Says Darshan
Speaking candidly about the film industry’s tendency to judge from within a metropolitan bubble, Suneel Darshan stated:
“I made that film, Mumbai didn’t like that film. But not just India, the world appreciated it. It ran for 15–25 weeks in theatres in villages of Bihar and UP. The journalists in Mumbai, who tend to write about our destiny sitting in Mumbai, should realise that the one who writes destiny is above everyone else.”
Released in 1999, Jaanwar, starring Akshay Kumar and Karisma Kapoor, may have been underrated in urban trade circuits, but went on to become a cult favourite in Tier 2 and 3 cities, primarily for its emotional storyline and dramatic intensity — elements that have always defined Darshan’s filmmaking style.
The film continues to resonate with audiences who seek traditional storytelling with moral clarity, a segment often overlooked in the multiplex-driven modern era.
A New Chapter: ‘Andaaz 2’ Brings in Fresh Talent with Aayush Kumar
In March this year, Darshan’s camp confirmed the development of ‘Andaaz 2’, a sequel to his 2003 hit Andaaz, which originally starred Akshay Kumar, Priyanka Chopra, and Lara Dutta. The new chapter promises to uphold the emotional and romantic legacy of its predecessor while ushering in a new face — Aayush Kumar.
Describing how Aayush was cast, Suneel Darshan revealed:
“I had scripted 'Andaaz 2' and also completed the songs-recording of the entire album with just the final stage of casting to execute... when my casting director brought male artistes to approve for the protagonist’s friend’s roles & amongst them was this person who I felt could be my best choice not for the friend but in the leading man’s role.”
Darshan added that he signed Aayush purely on intuition, drawn to his look, presence, and sincerity, which he believed were perfectly aligned with the film’s central character, Aarav.
Aayush Kumar as Aarav: A Story of Music, Love, and Struggle
In Andaaz 2, Aayush portrays Aarav, a passionate musician torn between his ambitions, love life, and internal emotional battles. The film, according to Darshan, aims to blend music, drama, romance, and moral depth, the signature mix that once made films like Andaaz and Jaanwar household names.
“The leading man Aarav Kumar was born at that moment & it took quite a while for the actuality to register in his mind,” Darshan said, reflecting on Aayush’s disbelief when offered the lead role.
Since then, Aayush has begun intense physical training, dance rehearsals, and script reading sessions under Darshan’s mentorship — a rare opportunity for a newcomer in today’s fast-paced Bollywood.
‘Andaaz 2’: What Audiences Can Expect
While Andaaz 2 carries the emotional weight of its predecessor, Darshan says it is not a carbon copy. Instead, the film will explore modern-day themes through a nostalgic lens, balancing classical romance with contemporary storytelling.
With music playing a critical role in the narrative, the soundtrack — already recorded — is expected to blend timeless melodies with modern arrangements, evoking the same sentimentality that defined early 2000s Bollywood music.
A Calculated Comeback for Darshan
Suneel Darshan has taken a deliberate break from active filmmaking in recent years, and Andaaz 2 marks his return to the director’s chair. His decision to introduce new talent instead of relying on bankable stars signals his commitment to storytelling over stardom, and could set a new trend in the industry.
In an industry often dominated by franchise fatigue and box office gimmicks, Darshan’s focus on sincerity, structure, and emotional realism could be a refreshing change.
Industry Reaction and Audience Expectations
While no official release date has been announced, buzz around Andaaz 2 is already growing, with both fans of the original film and newcomers eager to see what the sequel brings. Given Darshan’s proven track record with romantic dramas and musical narratives, expectations are high.
Film critics and trade analysts see Andaaz 2 as a litmus test — not just for debutant Aayush Kumar, but also for nostalgia-driven storytelling in a youth-oriented cinematic market.
Reader Takeaway
- Suneel Darshan revisits the Jaanwar legacy and criticizes urban bias in film reception.
- Andaaz 2 will introduce Aayush Kumar as lead in a romantic drama about music and personal growth.
- The film promises emotional depth, timeless music, and the return of Darshan’s classical narrative style.
- No release date announced yet, but excitement is building.