Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna’s son Aarav turned 23 on September 15, and the proud parents marked the occasion with warm and witty notes on Instagram.

While Akshay playfully called himself a “sidekick” in his son’s story, Twinkle compared Aarav to “air”, precious but never truly in one’s control.

The 58-year-old actor posted a selfie with Aarav, reflecting on how life has come full circle. 

He wrote in the caption, “Happy 23rd, Aarav! When I was your age, I was learning to beat people up on screen… now it’s strange to see you beating me in everything, from tech and fashion to arguments at the dinner table.”

Calling Aarav his biggest source of pride, the Skyforce added, “You’ve grown up so fast… you make me feel like a sidekick in my own story. Love you beta. These have been the best 23 years of my life because they’ve been with you.”

Twinkle also shared the same photo, penning a thoughtful message about motherhood. 

“Though I want to hold on to him, children are like air stored in our lungs, in our custody only for a moment before the next exhalation.”

With her trademark wit, she added, “This may not be the perfect analogy because we can’t keep popping babies in and out, but you get the point :) Here’s to the birthday boy, may he continue filling the world with his innate kindness.”

On the work front, Akshay appeared this year in Sky Force, Kesari Chapter 2, Housefull 5 and the Telugu film Kannappa. 

His next release, Jolly LLB 3, arrives in theatres on September 19.

He is also working on Bhoot Bangla and Haiwaan with filmmaker Priyadarshan. 

Meanwhile, Twinkle is set to host Two Much alongside Kajol on Prime Video, which premieres September 25.