Do you know what Bollywood has always managed to do with gangster dramas? Make them surprisingly soulful. For years, films about crime, violence and the underworld have stood out not just for their intense stories, but also for music that gives these characters an emotional side. Somehow, romance and soulful melodies have always found their place in the world of gangsters.

And one of the strongest examples remains Awarapan. Released in 2007, Mohit Suri’s film may have been built around crime, revenge and redemption, but its music gave the story a completely different emotional weight. Songs like “Toh Phir Aao”, “Tera Mera Rishta”, “Mahiya” and “Maula Maula” became an important part of the film’s identity. Almost two decades later, the songs still carry the nostalgia associated with Awarapan.

The connection between gangster dramas and music, however, goes much beyond Awarapan. Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai is another strong example. Milan Luthria’s 2010 gangster drama had songs like “Pee Loon”, “Tum Jo Aaye” and “I Am in Love”, which brought romance and vulnerability into a story driven by ambition, rivalry and the Mumbai underworld. Similarly, Gangster found a strong emotional identity through songs like “Tu Hi Meri Shab Hai”, “Bheegi Bheegi” and “Ya Ali”, while Company used songs such as “Khallas” and “Tumse Kitna Pyaar Hai” to complement its dark world.

Perhaps that is why the combination continues to work. Gangster films give music intensity, while music gives gangster stories a heart. These characters may live in a world of violence and betrayal, but their relationships, heartbreak and longing make them relatable to the audience.

And now, Awarapan 2 is bringing Shivam back. The music released so far has once again created that emotional connection, with the songs fitting naturally into the world of the film. Awarapan 2 releases in theatres on August 14. Directed by Nitin Kakkar, the film stars Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi and Suvinder Vicky.