Yash Raj Films’ latest romantic drama Saiyaara has become the cinematic surprise of the year and perhaps the decade. With no conventional promotions, no media blitz, and no star-studded events, the film quietly released on 18 July and has since exploded at the box office, turning its debutant leads Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda into overnight sensations.
The film grossed an astonishing ₹25 crore ($2.9 million) on its opening day, pulling in over 975,000 footfalls across India. According to Comscore’s latest update, Saiyaara became the ninth highest-grossing film globally this past weekend, raking in $11.9 million, including $11.3 million from India and $664,000 in North America, where it’s also garnering interest from diaspora audiences.
Directed by Mohit Suri, Saiyaara tells the story of Krish Kapoor played by Ahaan Panday, a passionate young musician struggling to find his voice in a cutthroat industry, and Vaani Batra portrayed by Aneet Padda, a principled songwriter whose brilliance matches her emotional depth. Their creative partnership evolves into a layered, intense romance that anchors the film’s sweeping emotional arc.
Despite featuring two relatively unknown faces, the film’s opening numbers rivaled debut blockbusters like Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai and Refugee, marking the strongest debut by newcomers in Indian cinema in 25 years.
What makes the feat more impressive is its radically low-profile release strategy. YRF and director Mohit Suri kept the lead actors completely out of the spotlight in the run-up to release — no interviews, no talk shows, no influencer tie-ups, and not even social media buzz. Instead, the team focused solely on storytelling, music, and a restrained nationwide release with just 8,000 screenings, less than half of the 18,000-show average typically needed for such numbers.
Yet, theaters reported sold-out shows across metros, and word-of-mouth quickly took over turning the film into a genuine audience-driven hit. For Suri, this is his career-best opening, even surpassing the record-setting numbers of Aashiqui 2.
The warm reception has been amplified by glowing endorsements from Bollywood veterans. Actor Alia Bhatt, cousin of director Suri, was among the first to celebrate the film on social media.
“It’s safe to say… two beautiful, magical STARS are born. @aneetpadda_ @ahaanpandayy — I don’t remember the last time I looked at two actors with such awe… I’ve already gushed to you both individually – but clearly, once was not enough. So here I am. Gushing. Again,” wrote Bhatt on Instagram.
Director-producer Karan Johar also posted an emotional reaction, said, “I don’t remember the last time I felt like this after watching a film…. Tears flowing and yet the feeling of immense joy… What a debut @ahaanpandayy !!!! You broke my heart and yet energised me as a filmmaker… your eyes spoke volumes and I can’t wait to see your journey ahead… You are spectacular!!!!”
With its box office momentum still climbing and fan response deepening, Saiyaara has proven that even in an era of algorithm-driven buzz and pre-release saturation, a heartfelt story and two breakout performances can still capture the nation’s imagination.
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