Ananya Panday is expressing her thoughts on why the Gen Z audience connected with her film, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan. In a recent interview, Panday shared her perspective on the relatability of her character, Ahana, and the impact it had on the younger generation.

Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, a coming-of-age drama released in 2023 and directed by Arjun Varain Singh, explores the lives of contemporary youth as they navigate friendships, relationships, and self-discovery in the digital age. The film, starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Adarsh Gourav alongside Panday, has been lauded for its realistic depiction of Gen Z experiences, moving away from stereotypical portrayals often seen in mainstream Hindi cinema.

Panday reflected on the audience's reaction to the film during a recent New York Institute of Fashion podcast. She noted that many viewers felt the film accurately represented their lives and experiences. She said, "I think the reason people connected to Kho Gaye Hum Kahan so much is because they were like, finally a Hindi movie that is showing us the way we actually are. I was so happy about that. Because honestly, the way Gen Z has been represented in movies, it's not been us. It's been like someone's idea of us".

The actress emphasized the importance of portraying Gen Z authentically, as opposed to relying on preconceived notions. She highlighted the numerous messages she received from both young men and women expressing their relatability to the characters and situations in the film. This, she said, solidified her desire to make movies that allow people to feel seen and understood.

Kho Gaye Hum Kahan delves into the complexities of adulthood in the digital age, showcasing the pervasive influence of social media and societal expectations on young people. The film follows the journey of three friends in Mumbai as they grapple with personal growth, heartbreak, and the pursuit of their dreams amidst the chaos of the online world. The narrative explores how social networking and its psychological manipulation can lead to feelings of loneliness, despite the illusion of constant connection.

The film has been described as a "slice-of-life drama" that offers a "scathing social commentary on the millennial and Gen Z's existential crisis". While the film focuses on a privileged milieu, it touches on relatable themes such as the pressure to maintain a perfect online persona and the impact of social media obsession on daily life.

Ananya Panday's character, Ahana, is a corporate professional who seeks validation on social media after a painful breakup. The film portrays her vulnerabilities and fears, making her a relatable figure for many young viewers. Siddhant Chaturvedi plays Imaad, a stand-up comedian addicted to Tinder flings, while Adarsh Gourav portrays Neil, an ambitious fitness instructor struggling with his own insecurities.

Looking ahead, Ananya Panday is preparing for several upcoming projects, including Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri alongside Kartik Aaryan, and Chand Mera Dil opposite Lakshya. She is also set to begin work on Call Me Bae Season 2 in October 2025, continuing the popular digital series.

Panday's recent roles in streaming projects like CTRL and Call Me Bae, as well as her courtroom drama Kesari Chapter 2, have earned her praise.