Snehashish roy
T-Series head Bhushan Kumar has publicly defended the casting of Diljit Dosanjh in the upcoming Border 2, firmly rejecting calls from internet critics who questioned the decision. In a candid statement, the producer insisted that creative choices in cinema should not be dictated by online trolling and that the film industry cannot, and should not, replace actors simply to appease critics on social media.
Border 2, the sequel to the iconic 1997 war drama Border, has been one of the most anticipated films of the year. With a high-profile ensemble including Sunny Deol, Ahan Shetty, Varun Dhawan and Diljit Dosanjh, expectations have been significant. When news of Diljit’s casting circulated, a section of social-media users questioned whether he was the right fit for the film’s tone and legacy. Detractors argued that the role should have gone to someone perceived as more traditional or rooted in mainstream Hindi cinema.
Responding to the debate, Bhushan Kumar emphasised that casting decisions are rooted in artistic vision, suitability for the role and the overall narrative the filmmakers want to convey. “We cast actors based on talent, fit and the story we want to tell,” he said. “You cannot replace an actor merely because a section of trolls on the internet has opinions.”
Kumar’s remarks reflect a broader pushback within the industry against what filmmakers see as undue influence of online commentary on creative processes. Producers, directors and actors have increasingly found themselves navigating a landscape where fan expectations, social-media trends and vocal online communities can overshadow traditional evaluation of craft, auditions and performance suitability.
In defending Diljit’s inclusion, Bhushan noted the singer-actor’s proven track record, both as a performer and as a contributor to varied kinds of cinema. Diljit’s body of work has spanned commercial hits and critically appreciated films, and his popularity extends well beyond regional boundaries into pan-Indian recognition. That cross-sectional appeal, Kumar suggested, is part of what makes him a compelling choice for Border 2.
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The producer also drew attention to the fact that films are collaborative creations. Directors often have a clear vision when selecting performers, and that vision is shaped by script requirements, character arcs and cinematic intent rather than momentary online sentiment. “Cinema is about storytelling,” Kumar said. “It’s about how you bring characters to life. Social-media noise should not determine artistic choices.”
While the internet remains a powerful forum for fans to voice their opinions, Kumar’s stance highlights the distinction between public reaction and professional responsibility. Many in the industry argue that trolling culture can sometimes reduce complex creative decisions to simplistic judgments based on popularity, memes or fleeting impressions, an approach that fails to engage with the craft behind performance and casting.
Critics of online trolling echoed Kumar’s view, noting that film communities often engage in premature judgment before a movie is released or even shot. These critics assert that trailers, songs and promotional content may not accurately reflect an actor’s full role or performance, and that snap judgments can unfairly influence broader perceptions of a project.
Supporters of Diljit Dosanjh welcomed Bhushan Kumar’s defence, praising the producer for focusing on merit rather than hype. Social-media users lauded his comments about not bowing to trolling pressure and reaffirmed confidence in Diljit’s acting abilities. Fans pointed to Diljit’s charisma, screen presence and prior performances as reasons why he can be expected to bring depth and nuance to his Border 2 role.