As anticipation builds for the upcoming sequel Border 2, slated for release on 23rd January 2026, a nostalgic wave has swept over Bollywood fans. The original war epic, Border, directed by JP Dutta, hit screens nearly 28 years ago and remains a landmark film. In a fascinating twist, an old interview of actor Suniel Shetty, who played the memorable Bhairav Singh, has resurfaced, revealing he initially turned down the iconic role.
The Fear That Almost Cost a Career-Defining Role
In a candid conversation on Radio Nasha, Suniel Shetty confessed his initial reluctance to join the cast of Border. The primary reason was his apprehension about the director's notorious working style. Shetty revealed he had heard that JP Dutta was a very strict director who was known to use harsh language when upset.
"I rejected the role because I had heard that JP Dutta was a very strict director, and he would even use abusive language if he got upset," Shetty recounted. "I myself was very hot-tempered at the time. When JP ji came to meet me, I told him, ‘I’ll get back to you.’ I then told my secretary, ‘I won’t be able to do it, because if he abuses me, I’ll raise my hand.’"
Family Channels to the Rescue
Despite Shetty's firm refusal, destiny had other plans. The actor, who prefers not to spoil professional relationships, had decided to let the project go. However, JP Dutta was adamant about casting Shetty and pursued the actor through an unexpected route.
"JP ji was so determined that he reached out to Bharat Shah, who knew my mother-in-law," Shetty explained. "So, through my mother-in-law, the film came back to me. She made me sit down and convinced me to do the film. I told her my conditions—that if any such situation arises, I’ll walk out." This family-led persuasion ultimately led Shetty to accept the part, which became one of the most celebrated performances of his career.
A Legacy Continues with Border 2
The 1997 film Border continues to be a touchstone in Indian cinema and a high point in Suniel Shetty's filmography. The excitement for the sequel is now multi-generational. Border 2 will see Sunny Deol leading the cast, which includes Varun Dhawan and Diljit Dosanjh. Notably, the sequel also marks a special moment for the Shetty family, as Suniel Shetty's son, Ahan Shetty, features in the film.
The resurgence of this old interview highlights the unpredictable journeys behind iconic films. It serves as a reminder of how a role initially rejected over concerns about a director's temper became a defining character for an actor, whose family is now part of the franchise's new chapter.
