With War 2 set for release on August 14, Telugu superstar Jr NTR has shared his thoughts on stepping into Hindi cinema and the support he received from co-star Hrithik Roshan. The action-thriller, directed by Ayan Mukerji and also starring Kiara Advani, will go head-to-head with Rajinikanth’s Coolie this Independence Day.
Concerns Over Acceptance in Hindi Cinema
Speaking at a pre-release event in Hyderabad on August 10, Jr NTR admitted he had doubts about how audiences in the Hindi belt would receive him.
“I come from South India, and thanks to SS Rajamouli for erasing many boundaries between South and North. But every South Indian has a doubt — ‘Kya accept karenge yeh log?’ Thank you for accepting me with open arms and for that warm hug on the first day. This is not just NTR entering Hindi cinema, but Hrithik equally stepping into Telugu cinema,” he said.
The actor, who spent 75 days filming alongside Hrithik, called the experience a valuable learning journey.
“I have learned a lot from Hrithik and often see myself in him. I can’t wait to get back on set with him,” he added.
High Praise for Director Ayan Mukerji
Jr NTR credited director Ayan Mukerji for his dedication to shaping War 2 into a “visual extravaganza.”
“Ayan has spent sleepless nights bringing this film to life. As I promised, 2025 will have another blockbuster from this country, and his name is Ayan Mukerji,” he said, predicting the filmmaker will be remembered for delivering one of the era’s standout films.
CBFC Edits Before Release
According to Bollywood Hungama, the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) asked the makers to implement several changes before clearing the film. These included:
- Muting six “inappropriate” references.
- Replacing one “obscene” dialogue with a toned-down line.
- Removing a two-second gesture deemed objectionable.
- Reducing sensual imagery by 50%, reportedly from Kiara Advani’s bikini scene, cutting about nine seconds.
After the edits, the board granted the film a U/A 16+ certificate on August 6. The final runtime stands at 2 hours, 59 minutes, and 49 seconds.
About the Film
War 2 continues the story from the 2019 hit, with Hrithik Roshan reprising his role as Major Kabir Dhaliwal and Jr NTR playing Vikram, another Indian spy with a conflicting view of patriotism. Kiara Advani stars as Kavya Luthra, a character central to the film’s plot.
The movie is part of the YRF Spy Universe, which connects major titles like Pathaan and Tiger Zinda Hai.
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