Anup Soni Shares Rare Throwback Photo with Young Irrfan Khan

April 4, 2026

Veteran Indian actor Anup Soni took to social media on April 4 to share a rare and nostalgic throwback photograph from his early theatre days that features a young Irrfan Khan. The image, believed to be from the early 1990s, offers fans a precious glimpse into their formative years in theatre before both actors rose to prominence in Indian cinema and television.

The sepia‑toned photo was shared by Soni with a caption that invited followers to spot familiar faces in the crowd, sparking excitement and fond memories among fans of both actors. The picture appears to capture a celebratory gathering possibly a wedding or social event involving fellow theatre colleagues with a casually dressed young Irrfan Khan standing among the group.

From Theatre to Stardom

Both Anup Soni and Irrfan Khan began their acting journeys on the stage, where they honed their craft before transitioning to film and television. For Soni, theatre paved the way to roles in popular TV series like Sea Hawks, CID, and Balika Vadhu, as well as film appearances in projects such as Kharaashein and Raaz. He is also widely known for his stint as the host of the crime‑reality show Crime Patrol, which significantly raised his profile among Indian television audiences.

Irrfan Khan, on the other hand, earned international recognition for his compelling body of work spanning Indian and global cinema. He studied at the National School of Drama and built his early career through numerous stage performances before moving into films. Over the years, Irrfan became one of India’s most respected actors, delivering critically acclaimed performances in films like Maqbool, The Lunchbox, Paan Singh Tomar, Hindi Medium, and Life of Pi.

A Touching Reminder of Humble Beginnings

Fans of both actors have been delighted by Soni’s throwback post, which serves as a touching reminder of humble beginnings and shared journeys. The rare photograph highlights a moment when two artists were still shaping their craft, long before achieving fame and acclaim. Social media users flooded the comments section with nostalgia, expressing admiration for the legendary talent of Irrfan Khan and appreciation for Soni’s willingness to share this historic snapshot.

Meanwhile, memories of Irrfan’s remarkable career are continually celebrated by fans and peers alike, with many recalling his ability to bring depth, emotion, and authenticity to every role he portrayed. His legacy continues to resonate with audiences around the world even after his untimely passing in April 2020 following a battle with a neuroendocrine tumour.

Legacy and Influence

Irrfan Khan’s contributions to cinema from Indian arthouse to international blockbusters remain influential. His son Babil Khan, now an actor himself, occasionally shares throwback content and tributes that continue to evoke emotional responses from admirers. This throwback shared by Anup Soni is another such cherished moment that connects the present to a vibrant chapter of Indian theatre history that preceded their onscreen fame.

Soni’s post not only gives fans a priceless visual from a bygone era but also underscores the deep roots many actors share in theatre a foundation that shaped some of the most memorable performances in contemporary cinema.