Varun Dhawan unfazed by trolling over Border 2, backs his performance

Actor Varun Dhawan has brushed aside online criticism over his appearance in the upcoming film Border 2, saying he prefers to let his work speak once the film hits theatres.

Dhawan recently came under social media scrutiny after the release of the song “Ghar Kab Aaoge”, with some users criticising his expressions and questioning whether he fits the role of a soldier.

Responding to the backlash during a promotional event on Tuesday evening, the actor said online trolling does not concern him and that he remains confident about the film.

“I believe you need to shut down the noise and let the work do the talking, these things keep happening but it doesn’t matter to me. I don't work for this. What I work for, you will get to know this Friday.

I believe in the film and it’s important to make a good film. I’m not concerned about the numbers (box office collection) and I come from a school where you let your work do the talking,” Dhawan told reporters at a promotional event for the film on Tuesday evening.

A sequel to J P Dutta’s 1997 war classic Border, Border 2 is set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The film stars Sunny Deol in the role of an army officer and is directed by Anurag Singh, known for Kesari.

Dhawan essays the role of Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, a Param Vir Chakra awardee, in what marks a departure from his largely romantic and light-hearted filmography.

The 38-year-old actor, known for films such as Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, Main Tera Hero and Jugjugg Jeeyo, as well as Badlapur and October, said he was aware of doubts surrounding his casting.

I did whatever was needed for the film. It required a lot of hard work, but it was fun shooting for ‘Border 2’. I’ve not enjoyed it so much in a long time. It was a challenge for me. People thought I may not be able to do this role but I did it and it was fun for me to do it,” Dhawan said.

The film’s makers unveiled ‘The Braves of the Soil – Tribute’ trailer on Tuesday evening. The event was attended by Dhawan, co-star Ahan Shetty, producers Bhushan Kumar and Nidhi Dutta, composer Mithoon, lyricist Manoj Muntashir, and Colonel Sushil Kumar Dahiya, son of the late Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya.

Ahan Shetty, who plays a naval officer in the film, said he feels a sense of responsibility being part of the franchise. His father, actor Suniel Shetty, featured alongside Deol in the original Border.

“There is a responsibility. The trend is really going crazy and all of us are enjoying it a lot. This is something that we can give back to our fans and we will do whatever we need to,” he said.

Speaking about his father’s support, Ahan added:

“And my father is commenting (on social media) because it's his son’s film. He wants to support his son through this process. I'm very grateful to him and the entire team of the film for the support,” Ahan said.

Produced by T-Series and J P Dutta’s J P Films, Border 2 is scheduled for a theatrical release on Friday. The cast also includes Diljit Dosanjh, Paramvir Cheema, Mona Singh, Sonam Bajwa, Medha Rana and Anya Singh.