Director Mohit Suri is enjoying the success of his latest release Saiyaara, which continues to perform strongly at the box office, raking in an impressive ₹274 crore (approx £26million) in its second week. The film has introduced two fresh faces to Hindi cinema – Aneet Padda and Ahaan Panday, with Ahaan quickly emerging as the nation’s new heartthrob.
Speaking to IANS about the film’s success, Suri opened up about Ahaan’s journey and how his early work behind the scenes played a crucial role in his evolution as a leading man.
Before making his big-screen debut, Ahaan worked as an assistant director on projects such as Freaky Ali, Rock On 2, and the critically acclaimed web series The Railway Men. According to Suri, it was during this time that Ahaan honed his craft through focused observation and an eagerness to understand every nuance of the filmmaking process.
“Some of my assistants have worked with him as well,” Suri said. “Even back then, Ahaan was very focused. He wasn’t looking for flashy assistant director roles, he wanted to be close to the actors, to observe. He loved staging scenes, giving the clap, watching how the camera moved. That’s what I admire about him. He’s been focused for a long time, and that dedication showed on set.”
The director praised Ahaan not just for his performance but also for his willingness to support the team.
“Whenever I needed help, Ahaan was there, not just as the lead actor, but motivating others too,” Suri added. “At such a young age, he understands the importance of every aspect of filmmaking. He doesn’t just show up and leave. He truly loves the filmmaking process, and that’s what makes him stand out. It’s a much healthier and more sustainable approach to the industry.”
With Saiyaara continuing its strong run and audience praise pouring in, Ahaan Panday’s debut is proving to be not just successful, but deeply earned, a product of patience, learning, and passion for the craft.
