The controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh's participation in "Border 2" has seen a dramatic turn, with the ban on the actor being lifted following a request from producer Bhushan Kumar. This decision comes amidst backlash over Dosanjh's film "Sardaar Ji 3," which featured Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) had initially recommended dropping Dosanjh from "Border 2" due to the "Sardaar Ji 3" controversy. The issue arose after the release of "Sardaar Ji 3," which included Hania Aamir, following the Pahalgam attack in India, which was allegedly carried out by Pakistanis. This led to a ban on Pakistani actors participating in film shoots within India.
However, the situation has evolved, with FWICE President BN Tiwari confirming that the ban on Dosanjh has been revoked. According to Tiwari, Bhushan Kumar requested that Dosanjh be allowed to continue shooting for "Border 2".
Adding to the confusion, filmmaker Bhushan Kumar has vowed to never cast Diljit Dosanjh in future films. FWICE member Ashoke Pandit echoed this sentiment, stating that non-cooperation against the actor would persist for future projects and warned of potential losses for producers who choose to work with him.
Dosanjh himself has addressed the rumors of his removal from "Border 2" by sharing a video from the sets. The video shows him in a formal suit with an army logo and badge, stepping out of his vanity van and onto the set. This confirms his continued involvement in the film, which also stars Varun Dhawan, Sunny Deol, and Ahan Shetty.
Despite the ban being lifted for "Border 2," the controversy has sparked mixed reactions. Some social media users have expressed their intent to boycott the film, while others defend Dosanjh. The debate highlights the sensitivity surrounding collaborations with Pakistani actors in the current geopolitical climate.
"Border 2" is a sequel to the 1997 film "Border" and is scheduled for release on Republic Day weekend, January 23, 2026. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, JP Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta.
