Ahan Shetty says he is aware of comparisons with Saiyaara star Ahaan Panday

Actor Ahan Shetty is all set to return to the big screen with Border 2. The film marks his second outing after making his debut in 2021 with Tadap. The actor’s journey in the industry, however, has not been an easy one. In a recent interview, Ahan spoke about how social media often pits actors against each other, with judgments being formed based on clips lasting just a few seconds.

Ahan Shetty on comparisons with Ahaan Panday

In an interview with Bombay Times, Ahan said, “Today, people just react to what they see in a two-to-three-second clip. That’s what’s happening in my generation. We’re constantly being put up against each other. I know there are comparisons between Ahaan Panday and me. I know that guy, and I know how hard he’s worked for his film and everything he’s done to prepare for it.”

He further added, “There’s no competition between us. We have our own careers. There is so much love and respect among each other, and that is what needs to come out. We’re all part of one industry. Social media has created a divide, and that’s why you don’t see as much support for one another.”

Ahan on nepotism debate

During the same interview, Ahan also addressed the topic of nepotism in the film industry. The young actor said that despite being the son of Suniel Shetty, his journey has not been easy. “It’s been a long journey since Tadap came out in 2021. It’s definitely not been easy. The whole nepotism debate comes up a lot, and I’ve always accepted it. My father is an actor, and I wanted to be an actor. I think it’s important to stay focused on what you want to do and not let the noise around you affect you too much. I focus on giving my director and producer my 200 per cent,” he said.

Ahead of Border 2`s release, Actor Ahan took to social media and spoke about `testing times` post his debut Tadap.  The actor sharing a few stills from Border 2 on his social media account, spoke about how `periods of uncertainty, quite struggles and life lessons` followed, post the box office failure of his debut movie Tadap.

“December 3, 2021… Tadap, my first film. The beginning of a dream I stepped into with hope, fear, and everything in between,” wrote Ahan.

“What followed tested me deeply… Periods of uncertainty, quiet struggles, and lessons that only time and patience can teach. Growth rarely comes without pain, and every moment shaped who I am today,” he added.

Directed by Anurag Singh, Border 2 also stars Sunny Deol, Diljit Dosanjh and Varun Dhawan. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on January 23, 2026.