Ahaan Panday, the debutant star of the hit romantic drama "Saiyaara," has recently shared his reaction to the overwhelming appreciation he received on set. In a recent interview, Panday recalled the moment he was applauded after a particularly challenging scene, saying, "I was genuinely shocked. It took me a long time to understand that this moment was happening to me".

"Saiyaara," directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Yash Raj Films, marked Panday's entry into Bollywood, alongside co-star Aneet Padda. The film, a musical romantic drama, tells the story of two youngsters, Vaani and Krish, who connect through music and find love amidst their differences. Released on July 18, 2025, "Saiyaara" quickly became a box office success, earning over ₹500 crore worldwide.

Panday's performance in "Saiyaara" has been widely praised, with many appreciating his on-screen charm and ability to portray a range of emotions. Viewers particularly lauded the chemistry between Panday and Padda, which contributed significantly to the film's success. The film also features actors like Geeta Agrawal Sharma, Rajesh Kumar, Varun Badola, Shaad Randhawa, and Alam Khan.

The recognition for "Saiyaara" extended beyond the box office, with the film receiving positive reviews after its OTT debut on Netflix and its television premiere on Sony Max on December 20, 2025. Fans took to social media to express their admiration for the lead pair and the film's heartwarming storyline.

Panday's journey to success has not been without its challenges. In his NDTV Indian of the Year 2025 acceptance speech for Debutant Actor of the Year, Panday acknowledged the ups and downs he faced, expressing gratitude to director Mohit Suri, co-star Aneet Padda, and his family, especially his grandmother.

Looking ahead, Ahaan Panday has confirmed his next project: an action film directed by Ali Abbas Zafar and backed by Yash Raj Films. The film is expected to begin production soon and will require Panday to undergo extensive action training. This new venture promises to showcase a different side of Panday, as he steps into a more action-oriented role.

The success of "Saiyaara" has not only launched Ahaan Panday's career but has also reaffirmed the audience's appetite for fresh faces and heartfelt stories. The film's journey, from its theatrical release to its digital and television success, highlights the power of a well-crafted narrative and the impact of talented newcomers in the film industry.