Border 2 Controversy Explodes: FWICE Demands Diljit Dosanjh's Removal Over National Allegations
Diljit Dosanjh’s Role in Border 2 Under Fire – FWICE Bans, Letters, and Political Storm Explained
The much-anticipated sequel to the 1997 war epic Border is now making headlines for more than just its star-studded cast. What was supposed to be a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers has turned into a political and cinematic firestorm. At the heart of the Border 2 Controversy is none other than popular Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, whose casting has drawn sharp backlash from FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees).
On June 25, 2025, FWICE issued a strongly worded letter addressed to Bhushan Kumar (T-Series), JP Dutta, Nidhi Dutta (JP Films), and director Anurag Singh. In this letter, FWICE expressed “deep disappointment and concern” over Diljit Dosanjh’s inclusion in Border 2, calling it a “blatant violation” of their previously issued directive to boycott the artist.
The reason? Diljit’s involvement in Sardaar Ji 3, a film featuring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, is scheduled for overseas release on June 27, 2025. The collaboration ignited a nationwide uproar, especially in light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. FWICE described Diljit’s actions as “unpatriotic” and stated that collaborating with talent from a hostile nation is contrary to national sentiment.
The Bigger Picture: Border 2 Casting News & Rising Tensions
FWICE’s letter emphasized that Border 2 is not just any film—it is a cinematic homage to the Indian Army’s courage during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The casting of someone who allegedly “prioritized personal gain over national respect” is, according to the union, not only inappropriate but also “deeply disturbing.”
The movie, directed by Anurag Singh and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, JP Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, features a powerful cast including Sunny Deol (reprising his role as Major Chandpuri), Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty. The film began shooting in November 2024 and is scheduled for a Republic Day weekend release on January 23, 2026.
For full details on the Sardaar Ji 3 controversy that triggered this backlash, read our in-depth blog here.
Since the Sardaar Ji 3 trailer dropped online, Diljit has been under constant fire. Social media users flooded platforms with boycott calls, accusing him of being “insensitive” and “shameless” for casting a Pakistani actress amid heightened national tensions. The controversy intensified when FWICE urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to block everyone involved in Sardaar Ji 3.
Adding fuel to the fire, FWICE reiterated that it does not “accept or tolerate any cooperation or collaboration with Pakistani artists in any form or on any platform.” This hardline stance has triggered fresh debates in the entertainment industry, with many wondering: Will Diljit be dropped from Border 2?
Will the Cast Change? What Lies Ahead for Border 2
As of now, there is no official confirmation about Diljit’s removal from Border 2. However, the mounting pressure from FWICE, combined with public backlash, could force the producers to reconsider. With Border 2 symbolizing national pride, the makers are walking a tightrope between creative freedom and patriotic sensitivity.
Meanwhile, behind-the-scenes footage has shown Diljit actively filming his scenes alongside Sunny Deol and Varun Dhawan at the National Defence Academy in Pune. It remains to be seen whether this footage will be included in the final cut.
The Border 2 Controversy has become a flashpoint for a much larger conversation about nationalism, freedom of expression, and the blurred lines between cinema and geopolitics. As FWICE continues to stand firm on its demands, the fate of one of Bollywood’s most awaited war dramas hangs in the balance. Whether or not Diljit remains part of the final cast, one thing is clear: Border 2 has already become a battleground — not just of nations but of ideologies, reputations, and public sentiment.
