Our Bureau
Mumbai
The much-talked-about sequel to the 2007 family drama Apne may still see the light of day, but not with the original script. Writer Neeraj Pathak has given a major update on Apne 2, confirming that the sequel can be made through a completely new story after the demise of legendary actor Dharmendra last November.
The film industry was deeply saddened when Dharmendra passed away in November 2025. Following his death, Apne filmmaker Anil Sharma stated that the sequel could not be made without him. However, producer Deepak Mukut soon expressed his desire to make Apne 2 as a tribute to the late actor. Pathak explained both statements came from their love for Dharmendra. “Anil ji said he can’t think of Apne 2 without Dharam ji. And Deepak ji also equally loved Dharam ji, so he said that Apne 2 will be like paying our last respect to him,” Pathak said.
Pathak revealed the original Apne 2 script had Dharmendra in a key character with a major role. “Dharam ji had a key character in that script. He had a major role. So, we won’t be able to make a film on that script because it can’t be made without Dharam ji,” he explained. This is why the old script cannot be used now.
However, there is hope for fans. Pathak said, “Apne 2 can be made through a new story. But I am not sure when it would be made because I feel it is too early right now. Maybe, we can think about it in 6-8 months. It won’t be right to rewrite the old script. Now, we would probably think something new,” he said.
The original Apne, released in 2007, was a sports cum family drama starring Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Katrina Kaif, and Shilpa Shetty in pivotal roles. The potential sequel continues to generate anticipation among Bollywood followers.
