When Border 2 released in cinemas on January 23, it arrived with the kind of expectations few sequels carry comfortably. A follow-up to J.P. Dutta’s 1997 classic Border, the film is not just a continuation of a story, but of a cinematic legacy closely tied to patriotism, memory, and popular culture. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film brings together a multi-generational cast led by Sunny Deol, alongside Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty.

A quiet confidence: Ahan Shetty holds his ground in the high-decibel world of Border 2 2 : Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama

A quiet confidence: Ahan Shetty holds his ground in the high-decibel world of Border 2

In such a large ensemble and under the shadow of a beloved original performances risk being reduced to volume and bravado. What works in Ahan Shetty’s favour in Border 2 is his refusal to play to that gallery.

Shetty’s role is that of a young officer placed in the thick of conflict, and his portrayal is defined more by control than flourish. Rather than attempting to match the thunderous screen presence of Sunny Deol or the expressive intensity of his co-stars, Shetty opts for a quieter register. His performance relies on physical discipline, stillness in moments of tension, and an understated emotional arc that unfolds gradually across the film.

There is an added layer of scrutiny attached to his casting. Suniel Shetty, Ahan’s father, was a prominent part of the original Border, making comparisons inevitable. To his credit, Ahan Shetty does not lean into that lineage overtly. His character is written and performed as a soldier finding his bearings, and the actor allows vulnerability to coexist with resolve. The result is a portrayal that feels lived-in rather than performative.

Within the narrative structure of Border 2, which frequently leans into spectacle and scale, Shetty’s most effective moments emerge away from the battlefield. In scenes of quiet anticipation or aftermath, he conveys the psychological toll of duty without overstating it. It is in these intervals that his performance adds texture to the film’s broader canvas.

Audience response to Border 2 has been varied, with praise for its patriotic spirit and scale, and criticism for its length and familiarity. Across social media reactions and early word-of-mouth, however, Shetty’s work has been noted positively, particularly for holding its own amid more established names. Viewers have responded to the sincerity of his performance, even when the film itself divides opinion.

A quiet confidence: Ahan Shetty holds his ground in the high-decibel world of Border 2 2 : Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama

Several publications and trade voices have also singled out Ahan Shetty’s work for praise. The Times of India noted in its review that Shetty “leaves a strong impression” and holds his ground in a crowded ensemble. In an industry interview carried by PTI and published by The Tribune, performances in the film were discussed at length, with specific mention of Shetty bringing balance and maturity to the unit dynamics. Trade-facing digital platforms such as Pinkvilla and Filmfare’s online edition have highlighted his composed screen presence, describing his turn as restrained and effective rather than overtly demonstrative a quality that has worked in his favour.

At the box office, Border 2 has opened strongly, benefitting from a Republic Day weekend release and the enduring recall value of the franchise. As discussions around the film continue, Ahan Shetty’s contribution stands out not as a breakout spectacle, but as a steady, credible step forward.

In an industry where volume is often mistaken for impact, Border 2 shows Ahan Shetty choosing restraint and being rewarded for it. It is a performance that may not dominate conversations, but one that quietly strengthens his case as an actor finding confidence in craft rather than inheritance.

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