18 Years of ‘Apne’: Shilpa Shetty’s Throwback Tribute Rekindles Bollywood’s Most Iconic Family Drama

 

On June 29, 2025, actress Shilpa Shetty took to social media to commemorate the 18th anniversary of the beloved sports-family drama Apne, sharing rare behind-the-scenes moments and emotional clips from the film. Her nostalgic tribute not only celebrated the film’s legacy but also reignited admiration for the Deol family’s first-ever on-screen collaboration.

 

Here’s a detailed look at the film’s significance, cast dynamics, and what’s next for the stars involved.

 

Key Highlights from Shilpa Shetty’s Tribute

 

Shilpa posted a heartfelt video montage on Instagram Stories featuring scenes with Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, and Bobby Deol  

The video was set to the film’s emotional track Apne To Apne Hote Hain, evoking strong fan reactions  

She reflected on the film’s emotional depth and the rare opportunity to work alongside three generations of Bollywood icons  

 

Why ‘Apne’ Was a Cinematic Milestone

 

Released on June 29, 2007, Apne was directed by Anil Sharma and marked the first time Dharmendra shared screen space with both his sons  

The film followed the story of Baldev Chaudhary, a disgraced boxer seeking redemption through his sons Angad and Karan  

It blended sports drama with themes of familial loyalty, sacrifice, and second chances  

The ensemble cast included Katrina Kaif and Kirron Kher alongside Shilpa Shetty, adding emotional and romantic layers to the narrative  

 

Legacy and Cultural Impact

 

Apne resonated with audiences for its portrayal of intergenerational bonds and the emotional weight of redemption  

It became a defining film for the Deol family, showcasing their real-life chemistry in a fictional setting  

The film’s success paved the way for future collaborations, including Yamla Pagla Deewana and its sequels  

 

What’s Next for the Cast

 

Shilpa Shetty and Sunny Deol are set to reunite in Lahore 1947, an upcoming historical action drama directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and produced by Aamir Khan  

The film also stars Preity Zinta, Shabana Azmi, and Ali Fazal, and is inspired by the acclaimed play Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya O Jamyai Nai  

Initially slated for Republic Day 2025, the release has been postponed to allow for final refinements  

 

As fans revisit Apne on its 18th anniversary, Shilpa Shetty’s tribute serves as a reminder of the film’s enduring emotional resonance—and the timeless appeal of stories rooted in love, legacy, and resilience.

 

Sources: The Statesman, AP7AM, Munsif Daily June 2025