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Bollywood’s acclaimed director Mohit Suri, known for films like Aashiqui 2, Ek Villain, Half Girlfriend, and Awarapan, has returned to the romantic zone once again — with his new film Saiyaara! This time, he has given a chance to fresh faces Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda. Released on July 18, 2025, the film is creating a storm at the box office. Recently, Mohit Suri spoke in an interview about the film and the thought behind it. Let’s find out what he had to say...
- You’ve directed films like Aashiqui 2, Ek Villain, Half Girlfriend, and Awarapan. What made you return to romance with Saiyaara?
With Saiyaara, I’ve returned to my roots—the romantic genre. This time, I’ve introduced fresh faces: Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda. The film released on July 18, 2025, and is currently making waves at the box office. Let’s dive into the inspiration and making of the film.
- What kind of film is Saiyaara? What’s the soul of the story?
It’s about the phase in life when the heart beats for the first time. When someone’s voice suddenly feels special, when the first rain feels romantic, and those small moments become eternal memories. I believe love and music are deeply intertwined. If a song instantly reminds you of someone, that’s the magic we’ve tried to recreate. The script, written by Sankalp Seddhana, came straight from the heart. It’s about two contrasting individuals who create music together—and in that, magic unfolds.
- What challenges did you face in casting, and how did you find the lead actors?
Initially, I approached some of my actor friends. Then I met Aditya Chopra, who said this story needed fresh faces in their 20s. Despite having major stars at YRF, Adi sir insisted it be made with newcomers. That’s how our journey with Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda began. Aneet’s very first mobile audition stunned me—her innocence and authenticity are rare in today’s cinema.
- Why didn’t you call it Aashiqui 3?
Aashiqui is complete and perfect in itself. I didn’t want that legacy or pressure to weigh on these new actors. I want people to say someday, “Let’s make Saiyaara 2.” I want these actors to carve their own identity. Ahaan shouldn't be the “next Aditya Roy Kapur”—he should be known as the first Ahaan Panday. That would be my success.
- Why choose an emotional love story in a time when thrillers and action films dominate?
Because that’s where my heart truly lies. Today, we see glossy, big-budget films—superheroes, crime, and realism. But I felt audiences were ready again for an innocent love story. We began planning this right after COVID, a time when cinema itself was redefining. Many people told us this genre wouldn’t work anymore. But Sankalp and I were determined to make it. Thankfully, our producers, Sumana Ghosh, Akshay Vidani, and Adi Sir supported us fully. We had the freedom to work with new actors, which added to the film’s soul.
- Why did you choose Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda specifically?
Very deliberately. I didn’t want stars—I wanted people who could become the characters. One boy kept auditioning, but something felt off. Then we learned he had been with our company for seven years but never got a break. I invited him for dinner and said, “Just call me Mohit, not sir.” We ended up talking until 3 a.m., and I saw the honesty in his eyes—the kind you need in front of the camera. We also found two girls whose screen tests were so natural, I instantly knew: these are the faces of Saiyaara.
- Your films always feature powerful music. What makes Saiyaara's music special?
For me, music is like GPS—a guiding star. I actually started my career with music. I’ve always considered singers, music directors, and lyricists as the real stars. These days, music is often reduced to two-track albums. But for Saiyaara, my goal was to make music and story complement each other. If a song can bring tears or a smile to your face, then that’s true magic—and Saiyaara has that magic.
- You consistently promote new talent in your films. Why is that important to you?
It’s always been my mission to bring in fresh voices, new composers, and emerging actors. Several tracks in Saiyaara have been created by new talents. I want my music to be heartfelt and emotional—not just something designed by algorithms. Most songs these days are temporary hits. My aim is to create songs that stay with people for years—just like Aashiqui 2's soundtrack. I believe Saiyaara's songs will also leave a lasting mark.
- Where did the inspiration for Saiyaara come from?
For me, love isn’t just an emotion—it’s a universal language. I communicate with my mother, sister, wife, and daughter in that language—through love. In the beginning of my career, I made thrillers and action. But one day, while filming a love scene, I felt something click. That’s when I realized: this is my true space. I then composed a romantic song that was well received, and I told Mahesh Bhatt: “Now I want to make a love story.” That led to Aashiqui 2. I believe we don’t choose our genres—our genres find us.
- The industry and audience are loving Saiyaara. What are your thoughts on the response?
The trailer, music, and the new lead pair have all received tremendous praise. Fans have showered love, and even industry names like Sandeep Reddy Vanga appreciated the trailer. But the biggest moment for me? When Aditya Chopra and Rani Mukerji watched the film and told me they absolutely loved it. That kind of appreciation means more to me than box office numbers.
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