Name: Border 2
Genre: Action, Drama, War
Released: 2026-01-23
Rating: 7.0
Cast: Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Medha Rana

27 years ago, a soldier made a promise. To honor that promise and pay tribute to the soil of India, the soldier is returning.

Border 2

Bollywood Hungama

Times of India

India Today

The Indian Express

Rediff

NDTV

News18

Taran Adarsh

Pinkvilla

Nidhi Dutta's story is cinematic and informative. It informs viewers about brave episodes from the pages of the 1971 war that many might not know about. Sumit Arora and Anurag Singh's screenplay is entertaining and, most importantly, easy to comprehend. The film is peppered not just with clapworthy moments but also scores on the emotional front. Sumit Arora and Anurag Singh's dialogues are conversational, dramatic and also clapworthy in several scenes.

Anurag Singh's direction is exceptional. BORDER's [1997] biggest strength was that it appealed to a wide section of the moviegoers through its simple and hard-hitting storytelling. This is not an easy feat to achieve in today's times; the biggest of directors have failed at this endeavour. But Anurag comes out with flying colours. The war portions don't confuse viewers; instead, these scenes engage them thoroughly. Anurag also knows that the audience will expect some mass-appealing moments at regular intervals and even in this regard, he doesn't fail. There are several such scenes in the film, but two sequences stand out. Firstly, the intermission point is fiery. Lastly, watch out for the last 15 minutes; it's sure to create a frenzy. At the same time, BORDER 2 also scores in the emotional scenes. There's also humour, particularly in the National War Academy scenes, and it'll surely be lapped up. The romantic scenes are also sweet.

On the flipside, the visual effects in the scenes of Mahender S Rawat leave a lot to be desired. The length of the film is another issue, albeit a minor one. Though the 199-minute-long film doesn't bore even for a moment, there are places where the interest level tends to dip to some extent. This happens in the first half, at the end of the romantic track. The audience might get restless and would expect the focus to be back on the border. Even in the second half, when the war begins in full force, a few moments don't really engage viewers. Fortunately, these are just minor hiccups in an otherwise gripping ride, and the film ultimately delivers exactly what it promises.
Border 2 Movie Review Performances:
Sunny Deol is in top form. He touches hearts in the emotional scenes while in the war scenes, he rocks the show. A few mass moments will remind one of his act in GADAR [2001] and other films of the yesteryears; that’s the impact he’s set to create among the masses. It's important to note that, contrary to rumours, he’s there from start to finish. Varun Dhawan is sure to win hearts with his performance and the valour of his character. The actor gets into the skin of his character and delivers a performance like never before. Diljit Dosanjh is lovable as always and plays his part with earnestness. Ahan Shetty, too, puts his best foot forward and proves that he’s a worthy performer as well, if given a chance. However, he does get overpowered due to the presence of other stalwarts. From the female cast, Mona Singh (Simi) leaves the maximum mark. Newcomer Medha Rana (Dhanvanti) comes next. Sonam Bajwa is lovely in a small role. Anya Singh (Sudha) lends able support. From the supporting cast, Paramveer Cheema (Nishaan Singh) and Vansh Bhardwaj (Santram) make their presence felt, especially in the scene where they get letters from their respective families. Bhushan Vikas (Beniram Rao) and Azad Chauhan (Balam Singh) do well. As for the antagonists, Waqar Sheikh (Khalid), Ali Mughal (Akram Khan) and Imran Farooq (Rasheed) stand out. The other two actors who deserve a mention are Ishika Gagneja (Sukhminder; Nirmaljit's sister) and Guneet Sandhu (Angad; Fateh's son).
Border 2 movie music and other technical aspects:
The music is a highlight. 'Ghar Kab Aaoge' obviously takes the cake and is very well placed. 'Jaate Hue Lamhon' and 'Hindustan Meri Jaan' come next. 'Tara Rum Pum Pum' is foot-tapping and will put a smile on the viewers' faces. 'Mitti Ke Bete' and 'Border' are touching. John Stewart Eduri's background score enhances the impact.

Labyrinth Cinematic Solutions Pvt Ltd, Nube Cirrus and Redefine's VFX is overall satisfactory but could have been better in the warship scenes. Dr Ravi Varma, Nick Powell, Parvez Shaikh and Allan Amin's action adds to the entertainment quotient. Sheetal Sharma's costumes and Mayur Sharma's production design are realistic and aesthetic. Manish More's editing is appropriate, though a few scenes could have been shorter.

Border 2 Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, BORDER 2 delivers a stirring, big-screen war spectacle that lives up to the legacy of the 1997 classic. It strikes the right balance between heart and heroism, and when it goes full throttle, it’s electrifying, especially the climax stretch that’s set to create peak mass hysteria. At the box office, the film is all set for a strong opening, and the extended four-day weekend will give it the perfect launchpad to emerge as the year’s first bona fide blockbuster.

Border 2 arrives carrying the towering legacy of J.P. Dutta’s 1997 classic Border, a film that defined patriotic war cinema for an entire generation. With such a formidable predecessor, expectations are naturally sky-high. Director Anurag Singh steps into this daunting space with confidence, crafting a sequel that clearly understands the emotional soul of the original while upgrading its scale, spectacle, and storytelling for contemporary audiences. While Border 2 may not recreate the once-in-a-generation impact of its predecessor, it succeeds as an emotionally charged and crowd-pleasing war epic that largely delivers on its promise.
Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the film ambitiously unfolds across three fronts—land, air, and sea. This multi-layered narrative structure gives Border 2 a broader cinematic canvas and a strong sense of national scale. Hoshiyar Singh (Varun Dhawan) represents the Indian Army on the ground, Nirmaljit Singh (Diljit Dosanjh) commands the skies as a fearless Indian Air Force pilot, while Mahendra Rawat (Ahan Shetty) leads naval operations in the Arabian Sea. Binding these three men is their mentor, Fateh Singh (Sunny Deol), now a legendary officer commanding troops at the border. As coordinated enemy attacks threaten the nation from all directions, the story steadily builds toward an urgent call for leadership, courage, and sacrifice.
Where Border 2 truly succeeds is in capturing its emotional undercurrents, even though its action sequences do not always match the gritty believability of the original. Thankfully, the film does not rely solely on battlefield spectacle. It takes time to invest in themes of brotherhood, duty, and sacrifice. The moments of camaraderie among soldiers, the quiet exchanges before combat, and the emotional toll on families back home lend the film surprising warmth. These softer beats prevent Border 2 from becoming a hollow action extravaganza and instead ground it in genuine human stakes.
That said, the film’s action design is still one of its strongest assets. From thunderous tank warfare and brutal hand-to-hand combat to sweeping aerial dogfights and naval encounters, the battle sequences are staged with impressive technical finesse. The editing remains largely sharp, ensuring the action feels intense without descending into visual chaos. The aerial combat sequences featuring Diljit Dosanjh stand out as some of the film’s most visually exhilarating moments, reaffirming Bollywood’s growing ability to mount large-scale war spectacles.
The dialogues are unapologetically loud, provocative, and clearly designed for mass appeal. Lines such as “Tum ek maroge toh hazaar aayenge” are tailor-made for whistle-worthy reactions. While the dialogue occasionally borders on excess and subtlety is rarely its goal, it aligns perfectly with the film’s old-school patriotic tone and high-voltage energy.
Sunny Deol emerges as the film’s undisputed powerhouse. His screen presence remains formidable, and his thunderous delivery evokes nostalgia for fans of the original Border. Even at this stage of his career, his intensity feels almost unreal, with many of the film’s most electrifying moments belonging entirely to him. Varun Dhawan delivers a restrained and sincere performance, displaying noticeable maturity and emotional control. Diljit Dosanjh brings charm and conviction, particularly during the air combat sequences, while Ahan Shetty leaves a strong impression—especially in a moment that pays homage to his father Suniel Shetty, guaranteed to give fans goosebumps.
The female characters—played by Mona Singh, Medha Rana, Sonam Bajwa, and Anya Singh—are written with more sensitivity than typically seen in war films. Though their screen time is limited, they contribute meaningfully to the emotional fabric of the narrative. The supporting cast performs reliably, with special mention to Paramveer Cheema, while a few well-placed cameo appearances add surprise value.
Musically, Border 2 strikes the right emotional notes. 'Ghar Kab Aaoge' feels poised to become a lasting patriotic anthem, evoking nostalgia every time it plays. The background score effectively amplifies both action and sentiment.
However, the film is not without its flaws. The runtime, particularly during the extended battle sequences in the second half, often feels stretched, and several emotional moments come across as familiar and predictable. In an era where war films like Fighter, War and others rely heavily on advanced CGI, Border 2 feels visually underwhelming in comparison, with effects that lack impact and a colour palette during combat scenes that is harsh and unappealing to the eye. This war drama also leans heavily into overt nationalism; while this works for its core audience, it leaves little room for nuance or moral complexity.
In the end, Border 2 is a solid, emotionally resonant, and technically accomplished war film that honours its legacy without being shackled by it. It may not redefine the genre, but it confidently reinforces the enduring power of big-screen patriotic cinema. Watch it for Sunny Deol’s roaring presence, its rousing spirit, and the emotion it wears proudly on its sleeve.

There is a quiet, devastating moment in Border 2 that captures the soul of the film long before the guns start firing. As Diljit Dosanjh’s character prepares to head into battle, he asks his mother to pray that he manages to kill all the enemies he’s going to face. She responds tenderly, reminding him that the soldiers coming from across the border are also someone’s sons, sent to war with prayers for long life from their own mothers. In that instant, Border 2 pauses to acknowledge a truth war films often forget: the men fighting these battles are not symbols or slogans. They are human beings, shaped by love, family, duty, and politics far larger than them.
Inspired by real-life military events in the 1971 War – Battle of Basantar, Operation Chengiz Khan, Battle of Munawar Tawi, and the story of INS Khukri – the film attempts to balance patriotism with emotional restraint. Mounted on a scale meant for the big screen, it places Varun Dhawan and Ahan Shetty as young officers leading a battalion into war, Diljit Dosanjh at the centre going solo, while Sunny Deol anchors the film as its emotional and ideological backbone.

Director Anurag Singh spends far too much time establishing backstories, romances, and training montages. As the three leads train together, compete, and build what is meant to be a lifelong friendship, the film briefly begins to resemble a military version of Student of the Year. These flashbacks, though well-shot, feel indulgent and largely unnecessary in a film with a runtime of 3 hours 19 minutes
It is only in the second half, once the story finally enters the battlefield, that Border 2 truly finds its rhythm. This is where the film breathes. The friendships feel real, the sacrifices hit harder, and the emotions touch deeper. Brotherhood becomes the highlight here as you witness how these men build another family within the battalion. One soldier names his newborn daughter after his colleague’s mother, who, in turn, sacrifices his life, so the child can grow up with her father. These are the parts that hit hardest.
As expected, the original songs play a key role in stirring nostalgia. Sandese aate hain still has the power to choke you up, and Ae jaate hue lamhon lands with quiet devastation. These songs remind you why the original Border became an emotional staple for a generation. The new tracks, however, struggle to leave a similar impact. While Mitti ke bete has found some resonance, the album doesn’t quite recreate the magic of the original soundtrack.
Performance-wise, the younger cast delivers solid work. Diljit Dosanjh, as PVC Sekhon Nirmal Jit Singh, is effortlessly charming, bringing warmth and humour without undermining the seriousness of the setting. His habit of calling his colleagues “brother” has been woven into the character, adding a lovely, lived-in touch. Ahan Shetty, as Lt Commander MS Rawat, is honest and restrained in his limited screen time. Varun Dhawan, who was questioned for this casting, manages to silence his naysayers. While he occasionally falters in scenes that demand commanding authority, his sincerity as Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya PVC, carries him through, and he ultimately surprises.
The dialogues are impactful without being excessively chest-thumping. There are patriotic highs, but they’re balanced with moments of reflection. The climax, particularly the sequence where Indian soldiers are mocked as cowards, builds to a dramatic payoff but is followed by a poignant final song that echoes, “Baba main toh raha nahi tu meri jawaani jee lena.”

Perhaps this is the perspective of a 90s kid who grew up watching the original every Sunday, but Border 2 doesn’t quite reach the legacy of Border. You miss the rawness and honesty. The action here is choreographed, visuals shot on green screen, and the stars never fully disappear into their uniforms. In the original, the actors – even though stars – felt like real soldiers. Here, you’re always aware of the personalities behind the characters.

In an age obsessed with influencers and celebrity culture, films like Border 2 remind us who the real heroes are. The makers have given a cinematic experience to the story that newer audiences are likely to appreciate. The 90s generation may feel a twinge of loss, but Border 2 stands as a respectful (even if polished) salute to sacrifice and service. Just maybe, if only, they could have called it something else.

 J P Dutta’s 1997 Border was equal parts a war film and a Bollywood film, with strong doses of action and emotion. Its strength came from Dutta’s penchant for patriotic cinema, and of course the elusive thing that no filmmaker knows beforehand — the fulsome embrace of the audience. Despite its occasional spurt of anti-Pakistan rhetoric, and the constant conflation of Ma and Dharti Ma, the original Border remains one of the most complete war films that Hindi cinema has made, and its musical sandese still echo in our movie memories.
My worry with this sequel was that it would be forced to drown the seriousness of the 1971 war and the valour of the armed forces with outsize jingoism, the flavour of the past decade. When it was made it ‘97, it was just another of Dutta’s films till it became his biggest blockbuster, a factor of time and place; this sequel comes in an atmosphere of heightened hostility amongst the two nations, when films are being greenlit and pushed into theatres to keep us in a constant state of unsettlement.

And I’m relieved to report that Border 2 holds on to the soul and spirit of the original, while giving us a much bigger canvas, showing conflict not just on land and air, but also water. It also brings back the biggest star of the original in Sunny Deol, introduced here as the ‘son of Dharmendra’ in the credits: he is far and away the biggest star of this one, towering over the rest of the ensemble, which includes Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty (whose father Suniel had a major role in the original), and others.

In the recreation of their domestic spheres, I’d say this one goes one better in giving us details of their home lives — the villages where the jawaans leave their families, waiting in dread and fear, holding on to hope that their men will return. One of the best parts of the film is a flashback spent not on the front but during their cadet-apprenticeship where the steel-like ties of friendship are forged amongst Major Hoshiyar Singh Dahiya (Varun Dhawan), Flg Officer Nirmal Jit Sekhon (Diljit Doshanjh), and Lt Cdr M S Rawat (Ahan Shetty), who then disperse to fight for their nation, protecting their borders on land, air and ocean. In a film which has men rattles their sabres, women don’t have much to do, but Mona Singh, as the wife of Sunny Deol’s Lt Col Fateh Singh Kaler, holds her own, as do the others — Sonam Bajwa as Manjit, Nirmal’s wife, Medha Rana as the unlettered Dhanvanti as Hoshiyar’s wife, Anya Singh as Rawat’s wife, leaving an impact in their brief roles.
Of course Pakistan is still Enemy Number One, what else, and of course the jingoism is clear and present — no war film can be made without the ‘dushman’ being downsized and shown to be mean and small— but it is never allowed to overtake the film. And for that we have to now be grateful.

Of course, that 30-year-old ‘Border’ could have an Indian soldier diving into a burning hut to save a Koran, with a man saying in wonderment, ‘par aap toh Hindu ho’, or a dialogue from a troubled newbie, played by a startlingly youthful Akshaye Khanna (revelling thirty years on in ‘Dhurandhar’), ‘woh bhi kisi maa ka bachcha hai’ for his counterpart across the border.
Of course, now those inclusions would be a stretch, But even so, Border 2 makes sure that our intrepid soldiers let the enemy jawans off when the latter remind them of their humanity even if that humanity is reserved only for ‘our’ men, theirs are full of bombast and pettiness, and only capable of using words like ‘halaal’, and calling Indians ‘buzdil’.
In a few places, you feel the length of the film, wishing it would have been crisper. But in most parts, the film keeps you with it, even with Varun Dhawan making his Haryanvi accent feeling like work, and Ahan Shetty showing his rawness. But the others, which include strong turns from Anurag Arora and Paramveer Cheema, keep the flag flying, with a special mention for the daredevil pilot Diljit Dosanjh, who works so well with director Anurag Singh. The futility and devastation of war is part of the script too, with the lives lost and the grieving all round: I was moved to tears in many places.

Finally, who else do you want when Sunny Paji is around, even though he gets to give his vocals a bit of a rest as compared to the earlier film. One of the climactic iconic scenes from the original — him staring at a tank turret — is recreated in this one (as are remixed versions of the still-popular songs) and it is as much of a win: though he is shown a trifle weatherbeaten, the years have been kind to him, and the dhai kilo ka haath is up and running, single-handedly enough to keep the enemy at bay, and our borders safe and sound. Sandese ab bhi aate rahenge.

When J P Dutta made Border in 1997, war films were not 'in'. The film industry had not yet opened that Pandora's box of 1971, which is providing content for films and Web series now.

Border 2, also set in 1971, like the first film, has been co-written but not directed by Dutta. Anurag Singh takes over the director's reins, and gets a considerably bigger budget and the marvels of modern technology to play with.

Amazingly, Sunny Deol still has the muscle and lung power to head another cast of young actors, looking none the worse for the wear after nearly three decades (there is some de-aging tech used).
Right at the start, he shoots down a few Pakistani interlopers into Indian territory and even dumps one over a land mine -- nobody dares mess with India's borders he declares, or they will find a Hindustani at every turn defending them.

Still, the Pakistani army brass thinks Indians are cowards and launch Operation Changez to attack India on multiple fronts on the western border, while the battle for the liberation of East Pakistan carries on at the other side of the country.
The film flashes back to the National Defence Academy, which trains recruits for all three branches of the armed forces. Hoshiar Singh (Varun Dhawan), Nirmal Singh (Diljit Dosanjh) and Mahendra Rawat (Ahan Shetty) meet there, and after some initial hostility, become the best of friends, under the eye of their commander Fateh Singh (Deol).

Before going into war, violence and tragedy, the film wisely spends time in establishing the friendship between the three, with a large sprinkling of humour, and also their romances and marriages.

Mahendra is already married with a young daughter; Hoshiar goes back to fetch home the bride (Meher Rana) whose face he hasn't even seen; while a reluctant to marry Nirmal is floored by and weds a spirited woman (Sonam Bajwa).

Fateh Singh and his wife (Mona Singh) have already lost their only son to war, and he has given up on his faith in God too; the other three are looking forward to life when they are called to the front.
Through the warm interactions among the soldiers, their teasing and banter, the film shows that these men are not just killing machines -- however righteous the cause may be -- they are also human.

They rejoice when a letter brings good news, weep when it's bad. (Sandese Aate Hain and To Chaloon from the first film is repurposed here.) They support each other, despite the occasional squabbling and form cohesive units.

Why Border 2 works
The Pakistan army is better equipped, but the Indians are more courageous and sacrificing. The enemy's top brass are, as always, evil caricatures, but in a sweet and funny scene, Hoshiar encounters a callow young Pakistani soldier, and orders him to salute, which he does.

Later, when the boy is killed, it seems sad that his life was cut down at such a young age, even though he is the enemy. Nirmal's mother says at one point, that mothers on the other side must also be praying for their sons' safe return.

The battle scenes, slick and detailed as they may be, are generic in a way. Wave after wave of men willingly sacrificing their lives for the country.

The film works when it seeks to portray the tragedy of war too. The tanks, grenades, guns and bayonets are out in full force, but the little scenes work, like a man using up rationed cooking oil, to keep a lamp lit outside a temple because it was a promise. This is overdone later, however, when his blood drips into the lamp as he dies.

A soldier does not reveal the birth of his daughter to his buddy who has lost his mother and could not perform her last rites.

Because the film treats soldiers as human, and concentrates on their emotions as much as their bravery, Border 2, probably without meaning to, speaks out against war. It is such a senseless waste of life, destruction of homes and families because countries refuse to coexist in peace.

Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Mona Singh stand out amidst the crowd of actors, and their sincerity adds to the elements that makes the film watchable.

Mounted on a grand scale but filmed largely in and around real military locations and installations, Border 2 is a longer, brighter, and more ballistic and variegated replica of the original war drama released in 1997. In tone and texture, however, it isn't the same.

The surface sheen of Border 2 reflects the significant distance that Mumbai's commercial cinema has travelled in terms of filmmaking technique in the 28-year interregnum. It is bolder and louder than Border could ever have been given the times in which it was envisaged and executed.

Yet, all things considered, Border 2 is essentially an extension of what the JP Dutta-directed blockbuster, one of the biggest Mumbai hits of the 1990s, brought to the screen - men at war.


Sunny Deol is the common factor between the two films and, nearly three decades on, he ensures that the spirit that drove Border is kept alive and kicking in the follow-up, a movie that has JP Dutta on board as a producer but is directed by Anurag Singh (Jatt & Juliet, Kesari).
The veteran actor is in his elements, pressing everything he has at his disposal into the service of this patriotism-fuelled exercise designed primarily to remind Indians of the glory that the three arms of the defence forces brought to the nation in a war that it waged within the first quarter century of its Independence.

The strongest support for the lead actor comes from Diljit Dosanjh, who dons the garb of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, posthumous recipient of the Paramvir Chakra after the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

The actor is fortysomething, Flying Officer Sekhon was only 26, but Dosanjh manages to project the sort of youthfulness that serves to paper over the casting discrepancy.

The same cannot however be said of Varun Dhawan, cast as another recipient of India's highest gallantry award, Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, famous for his leadership role in the battle of Basantar.

The actor is about the same age as the real-life character he portrays on the screen, but his interpretation of the 1971 war hero errs on the side of faux flash and flourish, which somewhat diminishes the impact of the film's finale.

Those who have seen the Malayalam film, 1971: Beyond Borders, might be inclined to compare Mohanlal's interpretation of a senior Army officer modelled on Major Dahiya. But there really can be no comparison.

Border 2 has come at a time when Hindi movies embrace jingoism with all their might. Although clearly mindful of what might work and what might not in the current climate, the film walks a tightrope that is often in danger of flying off its tether. If it doesn't, it is solely because Border 2 retains some remnants of the principles of yore.

The film has the length of Dhurandhar as well as a bit of its unrelenting and showy bellicosity, but it plants itself somewhere between the ultra-violent spy thriller and the refreshingly moderate Ikkis, a war film that is "anti-war" like all the great war films that have ever been made anywhere in the world.

Border 2 makes a fair first of extolling the exceptional valour of the soldiers it showcases while probing, if only superficially, the vulnerabilities and mental swings that make them human and believable. Separations, bereavements, hopes, fears and misgivings punctuate the drama in which lives are put on the line and heroic deeds are performed in the blink of an eye.

The men who parade across the screen and demonstrate an indomitable spirit possess great courage and fortitude but they are also wracked by doubts and frailties because their lives hang by a thread and they have families that they have left behind with a prayer on their lips.

Deol, playing a fictionalized version of a real-life war hero, has his customary cracks at declamatory screeds aimed at keying up his men, besides arousing fervour among the audience. On both counts, the strategy works reasonably well.

Heightened emotions serve as the spine of a narrative that plays out on land, at sea and in the sky, with men of the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy at their very best as defenders of the borders. But the action that explodes on the screen is interspersed with quieter moments that allow the spouses and mothers of the soldiers, and the men themselves, to give vent to their feelings.

Border 2, like its predecessor, tempers the truculent with the timorous, with the balance markedly tilted towards the former. But that is to be expected from a three-hour-plus film about a military conflict that took place 55 years ago that has to factor in contemporary mass susceptibilities.

When the Bangladesh liberation struggle triggered the India-Pakistan war in 1971, and also when JP Dutta made Border two decades and a half later, India was a different place, a place that had space for a degree of nuance, when acts of battlefield bravery did not have to resort to unbridled bombast to register itself on the collective consciousness of the audience.

On the acting front, Sunny Deol and Diljit Dosanjh are the bulwarks that stand firm even when the film strays into stretches that appear a tad inconsistent.

Ahan Shetty, playing an Indian Navy officer, stands in for his father Suniel Shetty (who portrayed a Rajput royal and Border Security Force captain in Border), but finds himself in a high-profile mix of actors who threaten to overshadow him. It is no mean achievement that he holds his own.

The female characters are a secondary presence. There are quite a few - Mona Singh, Sonam Bajwa and Anya Singh among them - but none gets the sort of play that Rakhee, Tabu and Pooja Bhatt did in Border.

Director of photography Anshul Chobey captures the visual sweep with striking competence but one cannot but feel the absence of Ishwar Bidri, the cinematographer who imparted remarkable fluidity to the 1997 war drama (as he did to JP Dutta films of the 1980s - Ghulami, Yateem, Batwara and Hathyar).

It is inevitable for a movie this long to occasionally sink into tedium. Border 2 does. But it has just enough ammunition in its armoury to be able to keep blitzkrieg going no matter what.

The definition of patriotism that JP Dutta's "Border" set in 1997 still lives on in the minds of every Indian. Exactly 29 years later, "Border 2" has arrived in theaters today, January 23, 2026, to carry forward that legacy. Directed by Anurag Singh, this film sees Sunny Deol, along with a new team of Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty, taking charge of the border. The film retains the flavor and deep emotions of the old "Border," but has it managed to retain the original's "smelling of soil" and simplicity amidst the dazzling glitz of technology?
In the history of Indian cinema, some films leave an indelible mark not just on the reel, but on people's hearts. When JP Dutta made "Border" in 1997, it wasn't just a film, it was a feeling. When Sunny Deol brought the legendary Battle of Longewala to life on the big screen, every Indian in the theater was filled with pride. The film's greatest strengths were its originality and simplicity. Now, exactly 29 years later, the next chapter in that glorious legacy, "Border 2," hits theaters today, January 23, 2026.
Produced by Bhushan Kumar, JP Dutta, and his daughter Nidhi Dutta, the film is directed by Anurag Singh. Expectations for the film were as high as the Himalayas, but did it live up to those expectations? Could Sunny Deol's roar recreate the same magic? Let's find out in detail. There's no doubt that you'll still feel the same old "Border" flavor in the film. The film's emotions are so deep that many scenes are sure to bring tears to your eyes. However, despite the technical brilliance, what's most missed in the film is its "original taste." Compared to the earthy aroma and simplicity of 1997's "Border," "Border 2" feels a little less appealing.
It's true that creating a sequel to a cult classic like "Border" was no less than a litmus test for the makers, and to a large extent, they have succeeded. Whether it's the patriotic spirit or the soul-stirring music, the makers' hard work is evident in every aspect of the film. From a commercial perspective, the film will undoubtedly surpass the 400-500 crore mark and become a box office success. But the harsh truth is that despite all its strengths, "Border 2" will never be able to replace the original 1997 "Border," as that magical feeling and spiritual connection are somewhat diminished this time around.
Initially, the film's casting raised many questions, especially regarding Varun Dhawan. However, after watching the film, it becomes clear that Varun has answered his critics not verbally, but through his acting. Varun has captured the discipline and inner emotions of a soldier with such depth. He hasn't overacted at any point, which is his biggest triumph.
Sunny Deol proves once again that when it comes to roaring on screen, there's no one like him. His screen presence still evokes the same spine-chilling energy it did 29 years ago in "Border." His gravitas as Fateh Singh Kaler is the film's backbone.
Diljit Dosanjh brings a unique spark to the film with his blend of innocence and heroism. His dialogue delivery and intensity in the battle scenes are commendable. Ahan Shetty, meanwhile, makes his presence felt even in his limited role. It's safe to say that Ahan has done complete justice to his father Suniel Shetty's legacy of "Border."
'Border 2' is a must-watch for anyone who loves to witness the valor of the Indian Army on the big screen. This film will make you feel proud, make you cry, and ultimately increase your respect for the soldier. It may not be as great as the 1997 film, but it is certainly one of the best war films of today. You can watch this film in theaters with your entire family.

Power. Patriotism. Pride... #Border2 makes your heart swell with pride... The film salutes the nation as well as the armed forces... STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. #Border2Review

Director #AnuragSingh delivers a thunderous, emotionally charged war epic that stands tall on scale, sincerity, and soul, while honouring the legacy of the cult classic #Border.

At its core, #Border2 is about valour, sacrifice and brotherhood – told with conviction and cinematic flair... Anurag balances spectacle with sentiment, while staying true to the spirit of the 1971 war.

The war sequences are breathtaking – mounted on a grand scale with meticulous detailing... Explosions, strategy, ground combat and aerial action are staged with realism and edge-of-the-seat tension... Importantly, the action never feels hollow; it always serves the story and the emotions of the soldiers fighting the battle.

Dialogues are a major high point – sharp, hard-hitting, and patriotic without being jingoistic... Written for big-screen impact, several punchlines are destined to become crowd favourites, triggering applause and whistles across single screens and multiplexes alike.

The music is exceptional, with the recreated versions of two iconic tracks from the first part – #GharKabAaoge and #JaateHueLamhon – striking a deep emotional chord in #Border2... The background score powerfully amplifies the on-screen impact, elevating both the drama and the war sequences.

#SunnyDeol is the film's beating heart... When he roars, the theatre is sure to erupt, especially when he delivers the power-packed lines... This is vintage #SunnyDeol – commanding, righteous, and unforgettable.

And an important fact: the film opens with #SunnyDeol – he's there *from the very first sequence right till the end*... In fact, he has the meatiest part in #Border2.

#VarunDhawan springs a big surprise... He brings intensity, vulnerability, and fire to his role, proving once again that he thrives when backed by strong writing and a well-etched character.

#DiljitDosanjh is in terrific form – a sheer delight to watch in every sequence... His comic timing and lighter moments are a huge plus.

#AhanShetty continues his upward journey with a confident, sincere turn – holding his own alongside seasoned performers.

#MedhaRana, #MonaSingh, and #SonamBajwa – the leading ladies – make their presence felt.

⭐️ Final word? #Border2 is a powerful, patriotic spectacle that connects across generations... It evokes pride, makes you emotional, and leaves you applauding the spirit of the #Indian soldier.

The film rides heavily on nostalgia, and that works largely in its favour. The reprised songs from the original Border instantly elevate the emotional quotient, transporting you back in time. Anurag Singh’s direction is unapologetically old-school, heartfelt, sincere and rooted in emotion rather than spectacle.
The dialogues are powerful and patriotic without becoming overly jingoistic. The film takes time to establish the personal lives of the soldiers, making their sacrifices feel personal. The first half patiently builds the emotional foundation, which pays off in the second half. The camaraderie between Varun, Diljit and Ahan is depicted with warmth and authenticity.

The war sequences are well-choreographed and impactful, especially in moments where emotion takes precedence over scale.
- Sunny Deol is exactly how his fans want to see him, roaring, commanding and emotionally charged. His clap-worthy dialogues and screen presence remind you why Border turned him into a symbol of cinematic patriotism.
- Varun Dhawan delivers a sincere and convincing performance. He nails the body language and emotional depth required of a Major, effectively answering the pre-release scepticism surrounding his casting.

- Diljit Dosanjh is a natural screen presence. His warmth, charm and livewire energy bring soul to the film and make his character deeply endearing.

- Ahan Shetty shows sincerity and restraint, and there are moments where you can clearly see shades of Suniel Shetty in his performance.

- Mona Singh, as Sunny Deol’s wife, lends quiet strength and emotional stability to the narrative and delivers a solid performance.
Border 2 is driven by memory and heart. At a time when war films are plentiful, this one manages to stand out by leaning into nostalgia and human connection rather than just scale. The climax scene, which serves as a heartfelt ode to the 1997 Border, is bound to leave audiences misty-eyed.

A stirring, emotional watch and a fitting Republic Day treat for the audience.

BORDER 2 (Trailer) | Sunny Deol, Varun, Diljit, Ahan | Anurag S | JP Dutta, Bhushan K | 23-Jan-2026

BORDER 2 (Teaser): Sunny Deol, Varun D, Diljit, Ahan | Anurag S | JP Dutta, Bhushan K | 23-Jan-2026

A winner of two National Film Awards and two Filmfare Awards, Sunny Deol is an actor popular for his work in Bollywood. Considered as one of the best action heroes of Hindi cinema, Deol comes from a family of many successful film stars. Some of his best known works include Betaab, The Hero: Love Story of a Spy, Ghayal, Damini, Ziddi, Border, Arjun Pandit, Farz and the Yamla Pagla Deewana film series.

Sunny Deol

Born on April 24, 1987 in Mumbai, Varun Dhawan is the son of veteran filmmaker David Dhawan. Before beginning his acting career, Varun worked as an assistant director for Shah Rukh Khan-Kajol starrer My Name Is Khan (2010). In 2012, he made his big screen debut with Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year. Varun is best known for movies like Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania (2014), Main Tera Hero (2014), Badlapur (2015), ABCD 2 (2015), Dilwale (2015), Dishoom (2016), Judwaa 2 (2017), Badrinath Ki Dulhania (2017) and October (2018). Interestingly, Varun, a die-hard fan of WWE wrestler The Rock, Dwayne Johnson always wanted to be a wrestler.

Varun Dhawan

Diljit Dosanjh is an actor who primarily works in Punjabi and Hindi films. He is also a popular singer and TV presenter. His musical style draws influences from Punjabi folk and various composers that he has worked with. Diljit made his Bollywood acting debut in 2016 with the critically  acclaimed Udta Punjab for which he won the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut and the IIFA Award for Star Debut of the Year- Male.

Diljit Dosanjh

Aahan is the son of famous actor Sunil Shetty.

Ahan Shetty

Medha Rana

Mona Singh is an actress and TV presenter who rose to fame with the soap opera Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin. She went on to star in other popular shows and appeared in films like 3 Idiots, Utt Pataang and Zed Plus among others. Her work on TV has earned her several prestigious awards and accolades.

Mona Singh

Anya Singh

Sonam Bajwa is a popular model and actor who appears in Punjabi cinema. A participant of Femina Miss India 2012, Sonam made her acting debut in 2012 with the movie Best Of Luck. She has acted in several Punjabi movies like Punjab 1984, Born To Be King, Sardaar Ji 2, Super Singh and Nikka Zaildaar. Sonam made her Tamil debut with the movie Kappal in 2014.

Border 2(2026)