Border 2 Director Anurag Singh Slams Trolls, Urges Apology for Varun Dhawan
In the wake of the blockbuster success of Border 2, director Anurag Singh has taken a firm stand against the online trolling and negativity that actor Varun Dhawan endured prior to the film's release. Speaking out in a recent interview, Singh emphasised that those who criticised Dhawan unfairly now owe him a sincere apology, stating, "Ab maafi ki application submit kar" (Now submit an apology application).
Box Office Triumph and Social Media Backlash
Border 2, featuring a stellar cast including Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahaan Shetty, and Sunny Deol, has been met with overwhelming audience approval, amassing over Rs 175 crore at the Indian box office within just four days of its release on January 23, 2026. The film's impressive earnings include:
- Rs 30 crore on opening day
- Rs 36.5 crore on the second day
- Rs 54.5 crore on Sunday
- Over Rs 53 crore by late evening on Republic Day
Despite this commercial victory, Singh highlighted the persistent issue of social media trolling that plagued the project, particularly targeting Varun Dhawan. He expressed concern over how negativity often garners more attention online, saying, "I think this has become a default on social media, and for us as people, that negativity tracks more. Jisko aur kuch nahi bolna wo sochta hai negative bol deta hoon, social media pe likes aa jayenge."
Anurag Singh's Call for Accountability
Singh elaborated on the personal impact of such trolling, noting that while actors are open to constructive criticism, unwarranted personal attacks can be damaging. He stated, "If people are submitting apology letters, then it is good. If you criticised something and unnecessarily did so, once you like it, you should say sorry and admit it was wrong." He further explained that the entertainment industry faces heightened scrutiny, but this should not excuse malicious behaviour aimed at gaining views or followers.
Reflecting on the broader trend, Singh observed, "People write negative things, say bad things, and get traction and followers. I don't know when this change happened, but saying good things became tougher and saying bad things became easier." However, he expressed relief that the film's success has shifted the narrative, adding, "But I am happy this has left our film because ab kaam bol raha hai (now the work is talking)."
This incident underscores the challenges public figures face in the digital age, where online criticism can overshadow artistic efforts. As Border 2 continues to dominate the box office, Singh's remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of respectful discourse and accountability in social media interactions.
