Anil Kapoor Turns 69: Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff Celebrate ‘OG Lakhan’

Veteran actor Anupam Kher marked co-actor Anil Kapoor’s birthday on Wednesday with a warm message that reflected their long-standing friendship and shared history in Hindi cinema. Kapoor, who turned 69 on December 24, received wishes from fans and colleagues across the industry. Kher’s message stood out for its personal tone. Taking to Instagram, he shared a video message and described Kapoor as both his “best friend” and the “best anchor,” a phrase that quickly caught attention among followers.

In the caption accompanying the post, Kher wrote, “Happy Birthday my dearest friend #KapoorSaab! May God give you all the happiness in the world. You are a great and a caring friend one could ever ask for. Thank you for all that you do for me! Knowingly

and unknowingly! Thank you for your subtleties and obviousness. You are one of the finest actors of our times who has relentlessly almost ruled our business of entertainment! But at heart you are beautifully caring and mindful! Wishing you a long and healthy life. Love and prayers always.”

Watch it here:

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A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher)

Anupam Kher and Anil Kapoor’s friendship

Anupam Kher and Anil Kapoor have shared a close bond for decades, often acknowledging each other’s work and personal milestones online. Their professional paths have crossed several times, with collaborations that include Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hain, Ram Lakhan, Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja and Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hain. Their on-screen collaborations helped cement a rapport that has extended well beyond film sets.

Over the years, both actors have spoken about the value of long-term friendships in an industry known for constant change. Kher’s birthday note leaned into that history, mixing admiration for Kapoor’s career with gratitude for his presence as a friend.

Wishes from family and colleagues

Birthday messages also came in from across the film fraternity. Jackie Shroff shared a video collage of photos on Instagram, celebrating Kapoor’s journey and longevity in the industry.

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A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher)

Kapoor’s daughter, Sonam Kapoor, posted a heartfelt note calling her father her “hero and forever inspiration.” In her message, she wrote, “Happy Birthday to my hero and to my forever inspiration. Your energy, discipline, passion, and love for life amaze me every single day. Grateful to be your daughter. Love you endlessly. The best dad in the world.” She accompanied the note with a series of photographs spanning different phases of his life and career.

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A post shared by Sonam A Kapoor (@sonamkapoor)

Anil Kapoor’s career

With a career spanning more than 45 years and over 100 films, Anil Kapoor remains one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring figures. From action and drama to comedy, his versatility has kept him relevant across generations.

Even after four decades in the industry, Kapoor continues to be associated with energy, discipline and a visible passion for his craft, qualities repeatedly highlighted in the birthday tributes he received this year.