Mumbai’s spotlight has firmly shifted to Ahan Shetty, the young star making waves with his role as a Navy officer in the blockbuster Border 2, now dominating box offices since its January 23 release. After a challenging four-year hiatus following his debut in Tadap, Ahan returned to the sets with a mix of excitement and apprehension. In an exclusive chat, he opened up about navigating the nerves of shooting alongside industry heavyweights like Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, and Diljit Dosanjh.
The transition back to filming wasn’t smooth sailing. ‘Working with big stars after such a long break was nerve-wracking,’ Ahan admitted. Yet, the camaraderie on set turned potential hurdles into highlights. Sunny Deol’s guidance, Varun’s easygoing vibe, and Diljit’s warmth provided the support he needed. Off-camera dinners with Varun became a ritual to unwind and shake off the shooting-day jitters.
Ahan’s family and friends were his rock during the gap years, helping him stay focused without regrets. He kept his head down, zeroed in on perfection, and followed the director’s vision to the letter. Pressure from carrying forward the legacy of the original Border? He brushed it aside, emphasizing that the sequel honors the classic with modern techniques while standing on its own.
Preparing for the Navy officer role demanded more than just lines. It was about embodying unwavering responsibility, precise body language, and an attitude of selfless patriotism. ‘A Navy officer thinks of the nation first, never flinching,’ Ahan explained, detailing his immersion into the mindset.
Comparing Border and Border 2, Ahan noted the shared war backdrop but distinct eras and styles. The original’s live blasts were groundbreaking; this one’s high-tech approach brings fresh energy. Stories from Sunny Deol and his father Suniel Shetty about the first film’s shoots added invaluable context. As Border 2 surges ahead, Ahan’s poised performance signals a promising comeback.
