Bollywood actor Ahan Shetty has offered a revealing glimpse into the intense preparation behind his upcoming role in the highly anticipated war film, 'Border 2'. In an exclusive interview, Shetty spoke about undergoing rigorous military-style training and the challenges of filming at authentic defence locations.
Transformation at the National Defence Academy
Shetty described the experience of shooting at the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, Pune, as both physically demanding and deeply transformative for his approach to the character. He emphasized that the environment of a real military institution forced an unparalleled level of authenticity into his performance.
"Training where real officers train doesn't let you fake anything," Shetty explained. "Your body, your posture, your intensity - it all has to match the authenticity of the location. It fundamentally changed how I approached the entire role." This immersion was crucial for his portrayal of a Navy officer in the film.
A Non-Negotiable Fitness and Recovery Regime
To withstand the demands of the role, the actor adhered to a strict and consistent routine regardless of filming location—be it Pune, Amritsar, Khopoli, or Mumbai. His regimen was built on three non-negotiable pillars.
First was dedicated strength training. Second, he incorporated sports like football and cricket to build agility and cardio endurance essential for long combat sequences. The third and equally critical component was a meticulous recovery protocol.
"Recovery wasn't optional - it was as critical as the training itself," Shetty stated. His recovery methods included ice baths, steam, sauna, and red light therapy to ensure his body could repair and perform consistently during gruelling shoot schedules.
Battling Real Terrain and Elements
The physical challenges extended beyond training and into the actual shoot. Filming at real military installations meant confronting actual terrain, weather, and the weight of tactical gear.
"It all comes together when you're doing combat sequences in 40-degree heat or operating in tactical gear for 12-hour shoot days," the 'Tadap' actor shared. The strength and endurance built during his preparation were put to the ultimate test under these authentic, demanding conditions.
The first-look poster for the film has already generated buzz, showing Shetty in a war zone, face stained with blood and eyes filled with steely determination, holding a tank gun. 'Border 2' is directed by Anurag Singh and boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Medha Rana, Mona Singh, and Sonam Bajwa.
Produced by Bhushan Kumar, JP Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, this major war drama is scheduled for a theatrical release on 23 January 2026.
