The release of Border 2 created waves of nostalgia and anticipation all over India. As a sequel to JP Dutta’s classic 1997 war film Border, the movie is expected to be an on-screen homage to the Indian Army, patriotism, and sacrifice. With Sunny Deol donning his iconic role and new entrants such as Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Diljit Dosanjh, the stakes are high. But just as the film was going into its third schedule of shooting in Pune, it was hit by controversy.
Sardaar Ji 3 Controversy: The Storm That Sparked Exit Rumours
Diljit Dosanjh’s Punjabi movie Sardaar Ji 3 was at the center of a hot controversy when it was announced that Hania Aamir, a Pakistani actress, would be featured in it. The movie, which hit theaters abroad but not in India, came under fire because of increased tensions following the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
Indian cine organizations, such as the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), called for action. They released statements calling for producers to distance themselves from Diljit, based on national sentiments. The brouhaha increased, and the next thing that happened was rumors starting to do the rounds that Diljit had been omitted from Border 2.
In the midst of all the whirring rumors, Diljit Dosanjh posted on Instagram and let a bombshell drop a behind-the-scenes clip from the sets of Border 2. The clip showed him stepping out of his vanity van, dressed in a full suit with an army badge and logo pinned onto it. The iconic song Ke Ghar Kab Aoge played in the background, imbuing the scene with emotions. The caption? Two simple words: “Border 2”. This short but powerful post conveyed a direct message—Diljit was indeed a part of the film.
FWICE's Mixed Signals: From Boycott to Reinstatement
FWICE had first made stern statements against Diljit, asking producers to drop him from the project. Director Ashok Pandit went so far as to say that he would never work with the actor again. But in a stunning turn of events, FWICE President BN Tiwari announced that producer Bhushan Kumar had approached them seeking leave for Diljit to resume shooting. The federation withdrew its previous order and permitted the actor to stay in the film. Tiwari explained that Border 2 doesn’t have any Pakistani actors and revolves around Indian security personnel, so that had an impact on their choice.
FWICE's Mixed Signals: From Boycott to Reinstatement
Even in the face of criticism, Diljit Dosanjh kept a dignified silence for the most part. In interviews, he clarified that Sardaar Ji 3 was filmed prior to the Pahalgam attack and that releasing it internationally was a decision taken to prevent offending Indian sentiments. He underscored that hiring Hania Aamir was not a political decision and that the producers of the film had heavily invested in the movie. His BTS video from Border 2 wasn’t a denial—by God, it was a declaration of resilience.
Border 2: What We Know So Far
Release Date: Republic Day weekend, January 23, 2026
Director: Anurag Singh
Cast: Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Ayushmann Khurrana, Mouni Roy
Production Houses: JP Films and T-Series
Plot: Though the specifics are kept under wraps, the movie is likely to examine another major military battle, mirroring the emotional resonance and patriotism of the first.
Industry Reactions: Divided But Hopeful
The film industry remains divided over the controversy. While some filmmakers have distanced themselves from Diljit, others have defended his professionalism and contribution to Indian cinema. Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah reportedly supported Diljit, stating that the actor wasn’t responsible for casting decisions.
Fans, meanwhile, have rallied behind him. Social media is flooded with messages of support, with many praising his calm demeanor and dedication to his craft.
The Diljit Dosanjh Border 2 BTS Video's Impact
The BTS video not only validated Diljit’s involvement—it reignited interest in Border 2. The sight of him in uniform, among dancers and crew, brought the essence of the original film to life. It reminded people of the emotional strength of Border and established the mood for what’s next. The video was also a PR masterclass—few words, high impact.
Why This Matters: Art, Patriotism, and Public Sentiment
The Sardaar Ji –Border 2 controversy juxtaposes the intricate dynamic between art and patriotism in India. As much as national feeling is revered, the episode provokes thinking on issues of creative freedom, timing, and responsibility. Diljit’s response to the crisis—via silence, clarity, and one BTS clip—provides a template for weathering controversy without sacrificing integrity.
Final Thoughts: The Show Goes On
With 50% of Border 2 already filmed and Diljit Dosanjh locked in for the cast, the movie is set to meet its Republic Day release date. The BTS clip not only ended exit rumors but also cemented the actor’s interest in the project. As production of the film goes on, the fans can look forward to catching a few more peeks at the making of what promises to be India’s largest war drama.
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