Who is Colonel Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, Varun Dhawan's 'Border 2' inspiration
Varun Dhawan's Border 2 is based on the real-life bravery of Colonel Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, a decorated Indian Army officer who received the Param Vir Chakra for his leadership in the 1971 Battle of Basantar.
His story has inspired not just this film, but also Mohanlal's role in 1971: Beyond Borders.
The man behind the legend
Born in 1937, Dahiya joined the Indian Army after one year at Jat College, Rohtak, and was commissioned into the Grenadiers.
During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, he led his company across a mined river under heavy fire, fought off repeated attacks—even after being seriously wounded—and refused to leave his post until victory was secured.
His courage and leadership are still remembered as textbook examples of heroism.
Why should you read about it?
Dahiya's life isn't just about battlefield glory—he was a family man with three sons and served in several key military roles before retiring as Colonel.
His story shows what real courage looks like when things get tough, making him an inspiring figure for anyone interested in true stories of grit and sacrifice.