​Dharmendra’s post-2000 journey from ‘Apne’, ‘Life in a… Metro’ to ‘Ikkis’​

Dharmendra played a retired boxing coach estranged from his sons, anchoring the film’s emotional core. The story followed reconciliation, honour, and family pride through sport and sacrifice. Appearing alongside his real life sons, his performance emphasised restraint over heroics. The role was widely discussed for its dignity and maturity, marking a significant phase where he transitioned into authoritative, character driven parts within mainstream Hindi cinema aimed at family audiences nationwide.