Suniel Shetty, fondly known as Anna, has carved a niche in Bollywood. With his charismatic persona, impeccable acting skills, and dedication to his craft, the actor has become a beloved figure in the Indian cinema. Primarily known for his action roles, the actor has acted in more than 100 films across multiple languages.
As the actor celebrates his 63rd birthday today, August 11, let’s take a look at his acting journey, top films, web series, and iconic dialogues.
Suniel Shetty’s Journey
Born on August 11, 1961, in Mangalore, Suniel Shetty’s family consisted of five members including his father Veeraapa Sheety, his mother Prema V Shetty, and sisters Sujata R Hegde and Sumitha Tarun Pratap.
After completing his graduation in Hotel Management, he entered the world of modeling. His remarkable appearance and engaging personality quickly drew the attention of filmmakers, paving the path for his entry into Bollywood.
In 1991, the actor tied the knot with Mana Shetty after dating for nine years. Initially, Suniel’s mother was against his relationship with Mana, but later she agreed as the actor refused to marry anyone else.
The next year, Suniel got his first acting break in the film Balwaan opposite actress Divya Bharti. Although the film got mixed reviews, his performance was widely appreciated.
In the same year itself, Suniel and Mana welcomed their first child, a daughter Athiya Shetty, and his son Ahan Shetty in 1995.
His breakthrough came with the film 1994 Mohra in which he was paired alongside Akshay Kumar and Raveena Tandon.
After that, he appeared in numerous big-budgeted films like Border, Hera Pheri, Dhadkan, Bhai, Aawara Paagal Deewana, LOC Kargil, and Kaante among others.
His path-breaking performances in films like Krishna and Aaghaz established him as one of the most popular action actors of his era
Not just Bollywood, but the actor made a mark for himself in the regional cinema also, notably in the Kannada cinema.
Apart from his acting endeavours, Suniel is also a Businessman. He owns a popular restaurant chain Mischief Dining Bar, a fitness brand Body First, and a production house Popcorn Entertainment Pvt Ltd.
Suniel Shetty’s Best Movies
- MohraThis one is among the actor’s biggest hits of his career. Directed by Rajiv Rai, the film also starred Akshay Kumar, Raveena Tandon, and Naseeruddin Shah in the lead roles. Suniel as Vishal Agnihotri received a lot of praise for this movie.
- DhadkanWhen talking about Suniel Shetty’s best movies, how can we forget to name this classic cult film? Released in the year 2000, the film also starred Akshay Kumar and Shilpa Shetty in the lead roles. Suniel’s negative portrayal as Dev received widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. He also bagged the Filmfare Award for Best Actor In a Negative Role for his performance in Dhadkan.
- BorderDirected by JP Dutta, Border is considered one of the best army films ever made in Bollywood. The multi-starrer drama, set during the Indo-Pak War, highlights the struggle, commitment, and patriotism of Indian warriors. Suniel Shetty played BSF Commandant Bhairon Singh.
- Hera PheriSuniel’s performance as Shyam was widely loved by the audience. It is one of the most successful comedy films of Bollywood, co-featuring Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal. The film was followed by a hit sequel Phir Hera Pheri.
- Main Hoon NaFarah Khan’s 2004 action drama film Main Hoon Na marked the comeback of Suniel Shetty. He was seen in a negative role and received praise for his performance. The film also featured Shah Rukh Khan, Sushmita Sen, Zayed Khan, and Amrita Rao in lead roles.
Suniel Shetty’s Most Iconic Dialogues
- “Main tumhe bhool jaau ye hon ahi sakta…aur tum mujhe bhul jaao ye main hone nahi dunga” – Dhadkan
- “Tumhare haaton mein woh rekhayein hai, jo mere haaton mein nahi hai … tumhare maathe pe woh lakeerein hai, jo mere maathe par nahi hai”- Dhadkan
- “Dilwale toh bahut dekhe, lekin pyar mein joh pagal ho jaye … aise dilwale ko aaj pehli baar dekha”- Dilwale
- “Mohobbat aur paagalpan ka bohot purana rishta hai”- Border.
- “Ek sachche desh bhakt ko hum fauj se nikaal sakte hain..lekin uske dil se desh bhakti nahi”- Jai Ho.
Suniel Shetty’s Web Series
Dharavi Bank
The actor made his digital debut with the web series Dharavi Bank in 2022. Directed by Samit Kakkad, the series also featured Vivek Oberoi and Sonali Kulkarni in the lead roles and premiered on the OTT platform MX Player.
Hunter: Tootega Nahi Todega
Suniel played the role of a cop in this action drama series which premiered on Amazon MiniTV. It also starred Esha Deol, Barkha Bisht, and Rahul Dev in pivotal roles.
Suniel Shetty has etched a mark in his fan’s hearts for a lifetime with his distinct dialogue delivery and action. Here is wishing this talented actor a Happy Birthday!