'Wonderful Experience': Emraan Hashmi wasn't expecting this kind of welcome in Pakistan

Emraan Hashmi has just shared what really happened when he visited Pakistan—and it's probably not what many expected.

While promoting Awarapan 2, the Bollywood star looked back at his visit to Lahore for the premiere of the original Awarapan, revealing that he arrived with a few apprehensions... but left with memories he still hasn't forgotten.

"The film was Awarapan. It was released in Pakistan, and we went to Lahore for the promotion. The reception we received there was so heartfelt and amazing. The people were incredibly warm, and the hospitality was fantastic. The way they took care of us was truly memorable. We stayed there for two days, and before going, we had some concerns in our minds, but once we arrived, all those fears disappeared. We had a wonderful experience," he recalled.

When the interviewer asked what those concerns were, Hashmi didn't hesitate.

"There was nothing of the sort; they are beautiful people," he said.

The actor also spoke about the love Bollywood continues to receive across the border.

"Hindi films have always had a huge craze in Pakistan. People there really love watching Hindi movies," he said, adding that Jannat also enjoyed immense popularity with Pakistani audiences.

Hashmi is currently promoting Awarapan 2, the long-awaited sequel to his 2007 cult classic.

Ahead of its release, he even shared a side-by-side look at his character Shivam Pandit then and now—giving fans a nostalgic glimpse before the film hits cinemas on August 14.

The sequel, directed by Nitin Kakkar, also stars Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi.