The wait is finally over. After 29 years, the sequel to India’s most iconic war film has hit the screens. Border 2 released on January 23, 2026, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia that has turned theaters into stadiums. From tractors parked outside cinema halls to “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” chants inside, the atmosphere is electric. But is the movie a cinematic masterpiece or just a nostalgia trip?
Here is everything you need to know about the film’s collection, cast, and verdict.
Is the Film Based on a Real Story?
Yes. Unlike the first Border (1997), which focused on the Battle of Longewala, Border 2 is based on the Battle of Basantar during the Indo-Pak War of 1971.
This battle is considered one of the fiercest tank battles in military history. The film expands the canvas to showcase a tri-service operation, highlighting the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy to secure a crucial victory in the Punjab and Jammu sector.
All Cast Name & Roles
Director Anurag Singh (Kesari fame) has assembled a massive ensemble cast to represent the three forces:
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Sunny Deol as Lt. Colonel Fateh Singh Kaler (Army) – The returning legend.
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Varun Dhawan as Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya (Army) – Based on the real-life Param Vir Chakra awardee.
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Diljit Dosanjh as Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon (Air Force) – Portraying the only IAF officer to receive the Param Vir Chakra.
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Ahan Shetty as Lt. Commander Mahendra S. Rawat (Navy).
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Supporting Cast: Mona Singh, Sonam Bajwa, and Medha Rana play the pivotal roles of the soldiers’ wives, adding the necessary emotional weight.
IMDb Ratings & Fan Reviews
The audience verdict is loud and clear: Mass Entertainer.
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IMDb Rating: Currently trending at 7.8/10.
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Critics Rating: Average 3.5/5 stars.
Fan Reviews:
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The Highs: Fans are loving the “Seetimaar” dialogues and the heavy-duty action climax. Diljit Dosanjh is stealing the show with his emotional portrayal of Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, while Sunny Deol’s screen presence remains unmatched.
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The Lows: Some viewers felt the movie is “too loud” and relies heavily on jingoism compared to the emotional depth of the original 1997 film. However, the consensus is that it serves as a perfect tribute to the 1971 war heroes.
Box Office Collection (Day 1 & 2)
The movie has taken a thunderous opening, capitalizing on the Republic Day weekend.
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Day 1 (Friday): ₹30 Crore
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Day 2 (Saturday): ₹36.7 Crore
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Total (2 Days): ₹66.7 Crore (approx)
With Monday being a national holiday (Republic Day), trade analysts predict the film will easily cross the ₹100 Crore mark by the end of its first weekend.
Verdict: Movie is Flop or Hit?
VERDICT: HIT (Blockbuster Loading)
With a ₹30+ crore opening day and positive word-of-mouth driving a jump on Saturday, Border 2 is definitely NOT a flop. It is on its way to becoming one of the biggest hits of 2026, proving that Sunny Deol’s box office pull is as strong as ever.
