On this Republic Day weekend Friday, January 23, 2026, the Indian box office is witnessing a massive “Sunny Storm.”
Border 2, the spiritual sequel to the 1997 cult classic, has officially stormed into theatres, and early reactions from X (formerly Twitter) suggest it is already the first “Blockbuster” of the year.
Border 2 X Review: Audience Reaction
The film has opened to packed houses across the country, particularly in the North Indian belt. Fans are calling it a “thunderous cinematic experience” that successfully blends high-octane action with raw, tear-jerking emotion.
Sunny Deol’s “Aura”: Netizens are hailing the return of “Vintage Sunny Paaji.” His portrayal of Lt Colonel Fateh Singh Kaler is being described as a masterclass in screen presence, with one user noting, “When he roars, the theatre erupts. This is the big-screen energy we missed!”
The New Recruits: * Varun Dhawan has emerged as the “biggest surprise,” with fans praising his intense and disciplined portrayal of Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya (PVC).
Diljit Dosanjh is being called the “soul of the film,” playing the legendary Air Force hero Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon (PVC).
Ahan Shetty is being lauded for his physical transformation and sincere performance as Lt Cdr Joseph Pius Alfred Noronha (MVC).
Emotional Depth: Unlike typical war films, Border 2 is being praised for its “soul.” The recreated versions of “Ghar Kab Aaoge” and “Jaate Hue Lamhon” are reportedly leaving audiences in tears.
Critical Feedback & VFX
While the film is being called a “must-watch,” some netizens have pointed out that the VFX and CGI in certain high-altitude aerial combat scenes feel slightly “artificial” or “rubbery.” However, the consensus is that the tight screenplay and heavy-hitting dialogues by director Anurag Singh make these flaws easy to overlook.
Box Office Prediction (Day 1)
Trade analysts, including Taran Adarsh (who gave the film 4.5 stars), predict a massive opening.
- Advance Booking: The film has already grossed over ₹17.5 crore (including blocked seats) through advance sales.
- Opening Day Forecast: Estimates suggest Border 2 could net between ₹32 crore and ₹35 crore on its first day, potentially making it the biggest opening of Sunny Deol’s career, rivaling even Gadar 2.