Shashank Khaitan Praises Varun Dhawan's Heart and Performance in 'Border 2'
Varun Dhawan is currently enjoying the tremendous success of his latest cinematic venture, the war drama 'Border 2'. However, prior to the film's theatrical release, the actor faced significant criticism, particularly targeting his smile. Now, his frequent collaborator and acclaimed filmmaker, Shashank Khaitan, has publicly responded to the controversial "tedhi-smile" comments that circulated online.
Khaitan's Heartfelt Instagram Tribute to Dhawan
Varun Dhawan recently took to his Instagram account to repost an IG Story from Shashank Khaitan that contained high praise for the actor. In his original post, the filmmaker wrote a touching message, stating, "You might have a ‘tedhi smile,’ but you have the cleanest heart and sincere eyes. And all of that is in full display in 'Border 2'. Such a good, solid, and sincere performance. Love you, my brother. Congrats on this blockbuster and many more to come."
The actor shared this heartfelt tribute on his own Instagram Story without adding any additional caption, allowing Khaitan's words to stand on their own. This gesture highlights the strong bond and mutual respect between the two industry professionals.
Background of the 'Tedhi Smile' Controversy
The "tedhi smile" comment refers to the backlash Varun Dhawan encountered following the release of the 'Border 2' trailer. A segment of the audience expressed doubts about the actor's suitability for the role, with his smile becoming a focal point of online discussion and trolling.
In response to this criticism, Varun Dhawan addressed the negativity by sharing a powerful image on social media. The picture featured him standing on his car, waving the national flag, accompanied by the caption, "Border 2. Love will always triumph hate. Thank you." This post served as his dignified rebuttal to the online trolls.
'Border 2': Cast, Box Office Performance, and Release Details
Directed by Anurag Singh, 'Border 2' boasts an impressive ensemble cast including:
- Sunny Deol
- Varun Dhawan
- Diljit Dosanjh
- Ahan Shetty
The film also features Mona Singh, Anya Singh, Sonam Bajwa, and Medha Rana in pivotal roles, adding depth to the narrative.
At the box office, the movie has achieved remarkable success, crossing the Rs 200 crore mark in India within just five days of its release. This commercial triumph underscores the film's widespread appeal and strong audience reception.
For those unfamiliar with the project, 'Border 2' serves as a spiritual sequel to JP Dutta's iconic 1997 film 'Border'. The contemporary war drama was released in theaters on January 23, 2026, and has since captivated audiences across the nation.
The film's success, combined with Shashank Khaitan's public support, marks a significant moment in Varun Dhawan's career, demonstrating how professional achievements and personal character can overshadow transient criticism.
