Actor Anup Soni marked the 74th birthday of his father-in-law, veteran actor Raj Babbar, on 23 June with a warm tribute on social media, calling him one of the rare National School of Drama (NSD) graduates to have successfully bridged serious theatre and mainstream Hindi cinema.

The Birthday Tribute

Soni shared a video of himself warmly embracing Raj Babbar, writing 'Happy Birthday Papa!' on the clip. In the accompanying post, he reflected on the journey that brought them together: 'Life has a wonderful way of bringing people together. A respected senior from National School of Drama (NSD), a distinguished public figure, and for the last fifteen years, my father-in-law.'

He went on to describe what sets Babbar apart in his view: 'One of the rare NSD graduates to successfully bridge serious theatre and mainstream Hindi cinema, emerging as a leading hero while remaining equally committed to meaningful cinema and his craft.'

Soni closed his note on a personal note: 'What I admire most is not the achievements, but the dignity, self-respect, and quiet strength with which he has lived his life. Wishing you good health, happiness, and many more meaningful years ahead. Always grateful for your affection and guidance.'

A Career That Defined an Era

Raj Babbar made his film debut with 'Kissa Kursi Ka' in 1978 and rose to become one of the leading actors of the 1980s. His filmography includes celebrated titles such as 'Insaaf Ka Tarazu', 'Nikaah', 'Aaj Ki Awaaz', 'Agar Tum Na Hote', 'Mazdoor', and 'Santaan', among many others. His NSD training gave his performances a theatrical depth that distinguished him from contemporaries who came through the conventional film-school route.

The Family Connection

Anup Soni is married to actress Juhi Babbar, daughter of Raj Babbar and theatre personality Nadira Babbar. The couple wed in 2011, making Raj Babbar Soni's father-in-law for the past fifteen years. Raj Babbar is also the father of actor Arya Babbar. His relationship with the late actress Smita Patil drew significant public attention in the 1980s; the two have a son, actor Prateik Smita Patil. Smita Patil passed away shortly after Prateik's birth in 1986.

Legacy and Significance

Babbar's career trajectory — from the rigorous training ground of the NSD to the commercial mainstream — remains relatively uncommon in Hindi cinema. While many NSD alumni gravitate toward parallel or art-house cinema, Babbar carved out a space as a leading commercial hero without abandoning his theatrical roots, a balance that Soni's tribute underscores. At 74, he continues to be regarded as a distinguished figure in both the film and public life of the country.