Director: Mohit Suri
Cast: Ahaan Panday, Aneet Padda, Varun Badola
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)
Release Date: July 18, 2025
In an era where Bollywood romance often gets lost in high-concept narratives and digital-age complications, Saiyaara chooses a refreshingly traditional path. Director Mohit Suri returns to his comfort zone of emotionally-driven love stories, delivering a film that may feel familiar but compensates with genuine heart and soulful execution.
Plot: Love, Music, and Memory
Saiyaara follows Krish Kapoor (Ahaan Panday), a troubled musician struggling to establish himself in the industry while dealing with personal demons and an alcoholic father. His life transforms when he meets Vaani Batra (Aneet Padda), a shy poet working at a publishing house. When Krish discovers Vaani's deeply personal poetry, he recognizes both her artistic potential and the possibility of a meaningful connection.
The first half beautifully illustrates their emotional restoration and artistic collaboration, with Vaani finding strength through her relationship with Krish while he finds grounding in her presence. However, the narrative takes a poignant turn when Vaani is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease, leading to heartbreak, separation, and ultimately, a test of their enduring love.
Performances: Fresh Faces, Genuine Chemistry
Ahaan Panday's Impressive Debut
Ahaan Panday delivers what critics are calling one of the most confident debuts in recent years. His portrayal of Krish brings vulnerability and charm to the character, with natural dialogue delivery and authentic body language that feels unforced. Unlike many star kids who rely on manufactured personas, Panday's performance feels grounded and relatable.
Aneet Padda's Graceful Presence
Aneet Padda matches Panday beat for beat, portraying Vaani with grace and quiet strength. Her evolution from a guarded, introverted character to someone who finds her voice through love and art is handled with remarkable nuance for a debut performance.
Supporting Cast Excellence
Varun Badola delivers a particularly noteworthy performance as Krish's alcoholic father, adding emotional gravitas without overplaying his role. The supporting ensemble, including Alam Khan and Geeta Agrawal, provides solid backing to the central narrative.
Direction and Screenplay: Mohit Suri's Signature Style
Mohit Suri demonstrates his intimate understanding of his audience, crafting a film that stays within conventional storytelling bounds but does so with conviction. The director successfully taps into the same emotional territory that made Aashiqui 2 and Hamari Adhuri Kahani resonate with audiences.
Writer Sankalp Sadanah keeps the narrative conventional yet appealing, though some critics note logical loopholes and melodramatic elements, particularly in the second half. The screenplay benefits from Rohan Shankar's dialogues, which provide the emotional spine of the film.
Music: The Film's Greatest Strength
No Mohit Suri film is complete without a memorable soundtrack, and Saiyaara delivers exceptionally in this department. The title track "Saiyaara" stands out as the film's emotional centerpiece, while songs like "Dhun," "Barbaad," "Tum Ho Toh," and "Humsafar" are equally soulful and perfectly placed to elevate the story's emotional beats.
Critics consistently praise the music as the film's strongest element, with many noting how the soundtrack functions almost like another character in the narrative.
Critical Reception: Divided but Generally Positive
The film has received a mixed to positive response from critics and audiences:
Professional Critics' Verdict
Audience Response
Audience reactions have been notably enthusiastic, with many praising the film's emotional authenticity and the chemistry between the leads. The film has achieved impressive advance bookings and has become Mohit Suri's second biggest hit, grossing ₹83 crores and set to surpass his previous success Ek Villain.
Technical Aspects: Visual Poetry
Saiyaara excels in its visual presentation, with several critics noting the film's lush cinematography and poetic visual language. The film creates an immersive experience that complements its emotional narrative, particularly effective on the big screen.
The production values, backed by Yash Raj Films, maintain high standards throughout, giving the film a polished, premium feel that enhances the storytelling.
Strengths and Weaknesses
What Works
Exceptional chemistry between the lead pair that feels authentic and lived-in
Outstanding musical score that elevates every emotional beat
Emotional authenticity that connects with audiences despite familiar plotting
Areas for Improvement
Predictable storyline that follows well-worn romantic drama tropes
Logical inconsistencies in the screenplay, particularly regarding the Alzheimer's storyline
Pacing issues in the first half that some viewers found stretched
Familiar territory that doesn't break new ground in terms of narrative innovation
Cultural Impact and Box Office Performance
Saiyaara has struck a chord with young audiences, particularly college-going viewers who have embraced the film's old-school romantic sensibilities. The film's success suggests a renewed appetite for traditional Bollywood romance in an era dominated by experimental narratives.
The movie's impressive box office performance, with strong word-of-mouth and sustained collections, indicates that audiences are hungry for authentic emotional storytelling.
Final Verdict: Heart Over Innovation
Saiyaara succeeds not because it reinvents the romantic drama wheel, but because it makes that wheel spin with genuine heart and conviction. While the story may echo familiar chords, the harmony between Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda hits the right notes.
The film proves that sometimes, storytelling isn't about reinventing—it's about resonating. For viewers seeking an authentic emotional experience over narrative surprises, Saiyaara delivers a satisfying journey that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Recommendation: Despite its predictable plot, Saiyaara is worth watching for its heartfelt performances, exceptional music, and the rare sight of genuine chemistry between newcomers. It's a film that understands its audience and delivers with sincerity—sometimes, that's more than enough.
The movie serves as a reminder that in the right hands, even the most familiar love story can feel fresh and emotionally rewarding. Mohit Suri has crafted a film that may not break new ground but certainly breaks hearts in the most beautiful way possible.
note: This review represents my independent analysis after watching Saiyaara in theaters. All opinions are my own and based on the film's artistic merit, entertainment value, and technical execution. I have no commercial relationship with the filmmakers or distributors. Movie appreciation is subjective—I encourage you to watch and form your own opinion. Rating scale: 1-5 stars based on story, performances, direction, music, and overall impact.