Border 2 Makers Stand Firm with Diljit Dosanjh Amidst Controversy
In a strong show of support, Border 2 producer Bhushan Kumar and director Anurag Singh have publicly defended their decision to retain Diljit Dosanjh in the blockbuster war drama, despite facing pressure during the Sardaar Ji 3 controversy last year. The filmmakers emphasized that casting choices should not be influenced by online trolls, highlighting their commitment to artistic integrity over external noise.
Defending Artistic Choices Against Troll Pressure
Bhushan Kumar, the head of T-Series, addressed the rumours that surfaced in 2025 about potentially dropping Diljit Dosanjh from Border 2. He stated, "We were lucky to get all the actors on board. We had started the film, and then this pressure came. If, because of trolls, a company like us will start replacing people, then we shouldn't make movies." This firm stance underscores the producer's belief in standing by his team amidst unwarranted criticism.
Director Anurag Singh, who insisted on casting Diljit for the role of war hero Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, echoed this sentiment. He pointed out that public perceptions based on interviews or screen appearances can be misleading, saying, "You watch him on the screen or watch his interviews. But you don't know him personally, and what his beliefs are. So you assume something and say things. But he isn't what you think he is." Singh's defense stems from their previous successful collaboration in the Punjabi film Punjab 1984 (2014), which built a foundation of trust.
The Sardaar Ji 3 Controversy and Its Fallout
The controversy erupted in June 2025 when Diljit Dosanjh starred alongside Pakistani actor Hania Aamir in the Punjabi comedy Sardaar Ji 3. This occurred just months after the Pahalgam terror attacks in April, a period marked by heightened cross-border tensions. The collaboration sparked significant backlash from trolls, who demanded Diljit's removal from upcoming projects.
At the time, Diljit was signed for two major franchise films: Border 2 and Anees Bazmee's No Entry Mein Entry. While he eventually opted out of the latter due to scheduling conflicts, he remained committed to Border 2, completing his shoot amidst the turmoil. The trolling campaign aimed to force his exit, but the makers' unwavering support allowed him to see the project through.
Border 2's Success and Diljit's Emotional Journey
Border 2 has achieved remarkable box office success, crossing the Rs 200 crore mark domestically within just five days of its release and eyeing a global total of Rs 300 crore. The film, co-produced by T-Series and JP Films, features a star-studded cast including Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, Mona Singh, Anya Singh, Medha Rana, and Sonam Bajwa.
In a heartfelt revelation last week, Diljit Dosanjh shared that he couldn't afford a ticket to watch the original Border in 1997, making his role in the sequel a dream come true. This emotional connection adds depth to his portrayal of Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, a 1971 Indo-Pak War hero, and resonates with audiences contributing to the film's historic start.
The makers have already announced plans for Border 3, indicating the franchise's continued momentum. This episode highlights the challenges faced by Bollywood in navigating public opinion while maintaining creative freedom, with Bhushan Kumar and Anurag Singh setting a precedent for supporting talent against undue external pressures.
