When Saiyaara released on July 18, 2025, it wasn’t just another film—it was the long-awaited debut of Ahaan Panday, a newcomer whose journey in Bollywood began long before his face appeared in the spotlight.
Lessons Learned Off‑Screen
Long before he became Krish Kapoor, Ahaan was already building his story behind the scenes:
He studied Film & Television Production at the University of Mumbai after attending Oberoi International School, gaining a solid foundation in visual storytelling.
He served as an assistant director on several acclaimed projects like Freaky Ali, Rock On 2, Mardaani 2, and The Railway Men (Netflix), learning the language of film from the inside.
In 2016, he made a short film appearance in Fifty alongside his uncle Chunky Panday—this resurfaced in 2025, going viral and drawing praise for the ease with which he seemed born to act.
What Almost Became His First Film
Before landing Saiyaara, Ahaan had been cast opposite Ajay Devgn in a Yash Raj Films superhero project directed by Shiv Rawail. Unfortunately, the film stalled during the pandemic and never materialized—but the experience shaped his trajectory.
Why Saiyaara Marked a True Debut
When YRF and Mohit Suri watched Ahaan audition alongside Aneet Padda, they found something rare: sincerity and emotional depth. This was enough for Mohit Suri to build the entire film around them.
Though he comes from a well-known family, Ahaan was praised for approaching his debut with thoughtfulness—not entitlement—while industry insiders likened his work ethic to that of Ranveer Singh’s dedication.
The Arrival & Its Impact
Saiyaara opened to ₹21 crore on day one—the highest ever for a newcomer-led Bollywood film.
Within its first week, it crossed ₹200 crore globally and ended up grossing ₹225 crore—making it among 2025’s top Hindi blockbusters.
Colleagues have already praised Ahaan’s debut: Ranveer Singh called it “scintillating,” while Kunal Kohli called the young duo a “breath of fresh air” in Bollywood.
What Sets Him Apart
He blends craft with humility, emphasizing learning first rather than legacy.
A trained filmmaker, model, and musically inclined storyteller, Ahaan shows creative range outside of just acting.
