Ahan Shetty surely knows how to make a lasting impression which is unique and different from his father, celebrated actor, Suniel Shetty. After marking his debut with the Milan Luthria’s Tadap alongside Tara Sutaria, Ahan made it clear to the film industry as well as the audience that he has what it takes to make it in Bollywood. The actor slowly and steadily is moving towards his goal. His upcoming film Border 2 is super special as it is the sequel to the iconic 1997 release Border which also starred his dad Suniel Shetty in a pivotal part. As the handsome lad gears up for the release of one of his biggest projects, he talks to Filmfare about movies, love and much more…
A film that inspired you while growing up?
I think there were 2 films that inspired me to become an actor… Border and Kaho Na Pyaar Hai. I was in absolute awe when I watched border for the first time, I must’ve been 4-5 when I watched the film for the first time. Kaho Na Pyaar Hai was just all about Hritik sir. His performance, his body, his action, the way he danced. He could do absolutely everything.
What made you want to become an actor?
It was when I started Drama in school in 6th grade, that’s when I really decided that getting into films is something I really wanted to do, before that it was just cause Dad was an actor, so I wanted to be like him. I’m also an introvert, so for me, acting was a way to be able to express myself through different characters.
Films of Suniel Shetty that you love?
There are so many… Border, Hera Pheri, Awaara Pagal Deewana, Gopi Kishan, Mein Hoon Na, Dus, De Dana Dan.
Best advice given to you by someone before entering the movie business?
Know your why, develop thick skin, and treat it like a marathon. The film industry is competitive, unstable, and full of rejection. Having a clear purpose helps you stay grounded and motivated when things get tough. Thick skin I think is quite self explanatory. You’re going to face criticism, rejection, and setbacks – at times it’s going to be public. Best not to take it personally; learn from it, adapt, and keep pushing forward. Success in the film industry comes overtime. You have to network, stay persistent, and most importantly stay patient. I mean I’m doing a film after almost 4 years so I know all about this. It hasn’t been easy but I’ve learnt so much about myself through this journey.
What’s your take on OTT eating into theatrical releases?
There are both pros and cons to the rise of OTT. OTT allows films wider accessibility, viewers can access films anytime, anywhere, and at cheaper costs. It has created a lot more opportunities for creators. Content can reach a wider audience. Experimentation and freedom, by this I mean there’s less censorship and studio pressure. People are willing to take more of a risk. Cons I’d say, a massive decline in theatrical experiences, some films are just meant to be watched on the big screen. Financial strain on theatres; a lot of independent theatres are struggling financially or even shutting shop completely due to the lack of footfalls. Overload of content on Ott at times makes it harder for quality films to really stand out. I think both platforms are very important, but for me, cinema will always be cinema.
What are the kind of movies do you wish to do in the future?
Definitely Action, I have a few lined up in this genre. Drama, comedy, romance, I think im honestly very open to all genres and eventually being able to experiment with them. That is once I can establish myself though.
Name directors you’d like to work with ?
There are quite a few I must say. I’m excited to be working with Anurag Singh for Border 2, I think we understand each other very well and he’ll be able to get the best out of me. Shaad Ali, Shivam Nair, Rohit Shetty, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Karan Johar, Siddhart Anand, Ayaan Mukherji, Zoya Akhtar, Priyadarshan, S. S. Rajamouli, Karan Malhotra, Shoojit Sircar, Shashank Khaitan, there are so many. I’d also love to work with Milan Luthria again.
Would you be willing to do a web series ?
Yeah definitely, I’m not opposed to it at all.
Tell us about working in Border 2, how does it feel to do the sequel to a film your father did?
It’s definitely an honour. It’s one of my favourite movies, not just of my dad’s but overall. Being able to be a part of this franchise is a dream come true for me. My mother was pregnant with me when she used to visit the sets of Border, it was technically the first film set I was ever on. So sometimes I feel like its destiny. I just hope I can do justice to my character and I am able to carry my father’s legacy forward.
What’s the one thing that you see yourself achieving in 2025?
I think right now all I’m focusing on is getting back to work. I have 3 films going on floors this year. One is border 2, one is a film wish Shaad Ali, which we’ll be announcing soon and another one is a film produced by Shibasish Sarkar and Ribhu Das Gupta which we’ll also announce very soon as well. So for me, my focus are my films and just getting back to doing what I love. It’s been a long break, not one that I wanted but I guess it was part of my journey.
What’s your take on love and relationships in today’s time ?
Love and relationships today definitely come with a lot of challenges, but there’s so much to look forward to and so much positivity in them. I think people are now more emotionally aware. People are learning about emotional intelligence, boundaries and mental health which In turn leads to healthier and more conscious relationship. People aren’t as pressured to conform to rigid timelines and social expectations as much anymore. Love today is more often about compatibility and shared values. Relationships now go beyond just traditional molds. Long distance relationships are easier now due to better technology. Couples are able to stay connected from anywhere around the world, strengthening their bond. Modern love also often allows two individuals to come together, rather than completing each other, they grow together. This may not be true across the spectrum but now, people who are my age (or around my age) are dating with more of an intent. People are seeking deeper connections and a shared purpose.
See Also: Suniel Shetty to remake Kannada hit Kirik Party for son Ahan Shetty – Exclusive
