Aparna Tilak Reflects on Her Journey from ‘Left Right Left’ to Healing Lives in Dubai
Mumbai/Dubai, June 18, 2025 — Former television actress Aparna Tilak, best remembered for her role as Captain Dr. Shalini Singhal in the popular military drama Left Right Left, recently revisited memories from her acting days, highlighting her time working with co-stars Rajeev Khandelwal and Arjun Bijlani.
The show, which aired in 2006, was set in the fictional Kanchenjunga Military Academy, where six passionate cadets train to serve the nation. The cast included a mix of fresh faces and experienced actors such as Harshad Chopda, Shweta Salve, and Gaurav Chopra, along with Aparna herself.
“We Were Like One Big Family”
Currently based in Dubai and working as a tarot card reader, Aparna has been away from the screen for nearly 18 years. But the memories of Left Right Left remain fresh.
“Most of the cadets were newcomers—enthusiastic, eager, super confident and motivated. They added a spark that’s difficult to describe,” Aparna said in a candid reflection.
She spoke fondly about her camaraderie with the cast and the atmosphere on set, describing it as “a big family with no starry airs.”
Rajeev Khandelwal’s “Limitless” Dedication
Aparna reserved special praise for Rajeev Khandelwal, who played the beloved Captain Rajveer Singh Shekhawat in the series.
“Working with Rajeev was like watching a pro in action. His dedication to his character is limitless. Once on set, he is Captain Rajveer and nothing else,” she shared.
She further added, “Every scene was rehearsed. We were all well-prepared, and I learned a lot from his craftsmanship. Despite being a huge star, Rajeev had no hang-ups or attitude.”
Learning Subtlety from Arjun Bijlani
Aparna also spoke highly of Arjun Bijlani, who portrayed Alekh Sharma in the show and went on to become a prominent figure in Indian television.
“Working with Arjun was a lesson in learning how to act in the most understated way. He can deliver the most difficult lines with a straight face,” she said.
Life After Acting: From Scripts to Spirituality
Though fans have long awaited Aparna's return to the screen, the actress has chosen a different path, one that centers around helping people heal. Now a professional tarot card reader, she describes her journey as deeply fulfilling.
“I’m on a journey of healing people. I’ve never closed the door to acting, and if the right opportunity comes at the right time, I’ll decide then. But right now, I’m enjoying what I do,” she said.
From “Hello Friends” to “Left Right Left”
Aparna Tilak was also seen in shows like:
- Kohi Apna Sa
- Family No. 1
- Jeet
- Hello Friends (the Indian adaptation of F.R.I.E.N.D.S.)
However, her portrayal of Captain Shalini in Left Right Left remains one of her most iconic performances.
About Left Right Left
First aired in 2006, Left Right Left was a youth-centric drama that aired on SAB TV and struck a chord with audiences for its patriotic theme and military backdrop. The story followed six cadets—each with their unique motivations—training to become soldiers at Kanchenjunga Military Academy.
The show was a launchpad for several television stars and became a cult hit among young audiences, especially for its inspiring message and emotionally charged storylines.
A Lasting Legacy
Even after nearly two decades, the popularity of Left Right Left endures, especially among those who grew up watching Indian television dramas in the mid-2000s. Aparna Tilak’s heartfelt recollection is a reminder of the kind of storytelling that continues to leave a mark on both viewers and actors alike.
As she puts it, “Those years taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to stay grounded. It was a special chapter in my life.”
Aparna Tilak’s journey—from portraying a principled army doctor to becoming a healer in real life—is a compelling reminder that while careers may change, the values and relationships we build along the way endure. Her reflections also rekindle nostalgia for one of Indian television’s most cherished shows, Left Right Left.