Suniel Shetty’s role as Bhairav Singh Rathod in JP Dutta’s Border remains etched in Bollywood history. But few know that the actor almost didn’t take up the role—and the reason is both shocking and relatable.
Speaking to Radio Nasha, Shetty revealed he initially refused the film due to JP Dutta’s fiery reputation. “I had heard he abuses when angry,” the actor admitted, adding that he didn’t want to end up in a confrontation. “If he had abused me, I would’ve raised my hand. I didn’t want that kind of friction,” he confessed.
Despite the hesitation, Dutta was adamant. He reached out to someone who knew Suniel’s mother-in-law, who eventually convinced him to reconsider. However, Shetty had a condition—if things went south on set, he’d walk out. Fortunately, the two ended up bonding like “a house on fire.”
Suniel Shetty is now gearing up for Hera Pheri 3, reuniting with Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal under the direction of Priyadarshan. The cult comic franchise is expected to go on floors by December 2025.