Inside Ahan Shetty’s Intense Prep for Border 2: Military Training, 12-Hour Shoots and Extreme Heat
Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): Following the buzz around the recently unveiled teaser of the most-awaited patriotic film, Border 2, Ahan Shetty has shared insights into the intense physical preparation and military-style training he underwent for his role in the film. The actor, who essays the role of a Navy officer in Border 2, described the experience as both physically demanding and deeply transformative.
Reflecting on the impact of filming at real locations, Ahan said, “Shooting at NDA Khadakwasla in Pune wasn’t just about capturing authentic visuals, it changed how I approached the entire role. You’re training where real officers train. That environment doesn’t let you fake anything. Your body, your posture, your intensity – it all has to match the authenticity of the location.”
Talking about the hard-core preparation he went through for his role, Ahan added, “My routine didn’t change across locations – Pune, Amritsar, Khopoli, or Mumbai. Non-negotiable: strength training sessions, sports like football and cricket for agility and cardio endurance, and a strict recovery protocol including ice baths, steam, sauna and red light therapy. Recovery wasn’t optional – it was as critical as the training itself. When you’re shooting intense combat sequences day after day, your body needs to repair and perform consistently."
Ahan also spoke about the additional challenges that came with filming at actual military installations, where the environment itself became part of the test. Talking about it, Ahan said, “Shooting at actual military installations brought real physical challenges. You’re dealing with actual terrain, weather and the physical demands of tactical sequences. The strength training, the cardio endurance from sports – it all comes together when you’re doing combat sequences in 40-degree heat or operating in tactical gear for 12-hour shoot days.”
In Border 2, Ahan Shetty is seen stepping into the boots of a Navy officer. The first-look poster released by the makers shows him in a high-intensity war zone, blood smeared across his face, eyes locked with determination and a heavy weapon in hand, signalling the scale and grit of the film.
Border 2 is presented by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series & J.P. Dutta’s J.P. Films. Backed by a powerful production team including Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta and Nidhi Dutta, and directed by Anurag Singh, the film continues the legacy of honouring the heroism and indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers, taking audiences on a spectacular journey of patriotism, courage and sacrifice. Gear up for this monumental saga of patriotism and courage, as Border 2 storms into cinemas on January 23rd 2026.