Amid Border 2's VFX backlash, Varun Dhawan talks about his real-life war hero role: 'Demanded a different level of physical discipline'

Varun Dhawan will play the role of Colonel Hoshiar Singh Dahiya in the upcoming war drama, Border 2. Ahead of the release, Varun shared the preparation for his role.

Varun Dhawan in Border 2

Border 2 is one of the most-awaited films of 2026. Starring Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty in the lead roles, the film is a spiritual sequel to the 1997 classic, focusing on the 1971 Indo-Pak War on a grander scale. The makers recently unveiled the teaser, and it received mixed responses due to the overuse of VFX. Amid this, Varun opened up about his preparation for his real-life war hero, Colonel Hoshiar Singh Dahiya's role.

Varun Dhawan on his Border 2 role

Speaking to IANS, Varun Dhawan revealed that playing a soldier on screen required a great level of physical and mental discipline. He also said that things became more interesting as he shot in real locations, which helped him put himself in the mindset of a soldier.

"Border 2 demanded a different level of physical and mental discipline, especially since we were shooting at real locations like Babina, and such situations really put you in the mindset of a soldier. You’re out there all day, often in tough conditions, so fitness becomes less about looking a certain way and more about stamina and recovery," said Varun.

Sharing his diet during shooting, Varun said that his routine was very functional, lots of strength training, endurance work, and mobility, because the terrain and weather can not be kind. 'Diet-wise, I kept it very clean and simple: high protein, good carbs, and lots of hydration to sustain long outdoor shoots," he said.

About Border 2

Border 2 is an upcoming Hindi war epic, a spiritual sequel to the 1997 classic, focusing on the 1971 Indo-Pak War, starring Sunny Deol (returning as a legendary soldier).

Varun Dhawan will play Colonel Hoshiar Singh Dahiya. He was a celebrated Indian Army officer who was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India's highest gallantry award, for his extraordinary bravery and leadership during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, particularly in the fierce Battle of Jarpal.

Also Read: Border 2 Teaser OUT: Sunny Deol makes power-packed return to battlefield; Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh display heroism in war drama

While Diljit Dosanjh will play the role of Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon. The Indian Air Force officer was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his sole defence of the Srinagar Air Base against air strikes by the Pakistan Air Force during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. On the other hand, Ahan Shetty will play the role of an Indian Navy officer.

Directed by Anurag Singh, Border 2 will hit cinemas on January 23, 2026.

Border 2 FAQs

Q: Is Mona Singh in Border 2?

A: Mona Singh joined Border 2 as the main female lead opposite Sunny Deol. As per the teaser, she will play the role of Fateh Singh Kaler's wife.

Q: What is Border 2 story based on?

A: Border 2 is a spiritual sequel to the 1997 film Border. It focuses on the 1971 Indo-Pak War

Q: When is Border 2 releasing?

A: Border 2 will be released in theatres on January 23, 2026.

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