Mohit Suri, director of the blockbuster film Saiyaara, playfully labeled lead actor Ahaan Panday a “fraud” after Ahaan sent him old, “bad audition” videos.
Finding His Krish Kapoor
Before *Saiyaara* became a massive hit, Mohit Suri was searching for his leading man, Krish Kapoor. A senior filmmaker suggested Ahaan Panday, describing him as loud and boisterous – exactly what Suri envisioned for the role.
However, when Mohit met Ahaan, he was surprised to find a timid, soft-spoken, and well-mannered young man. This didn’t quite fit the “ill-mannered, brash boy” character he was looking for.
It took some convincing, and even a casual dinner outing, for Mohit to see Ahaan’s true personality. Once Ahaan dropped his formal demeanor, Mohit discovered the “brash, ill-mannered, good-hearted guy” that was perfect for Krish Kapoor.
The “Fraud” Confession
After wrapping up the film’s shoot, Ahaan Panday sent Mohit Suri a collection of his old, “bad audition” tapes. He jokingly asked the director how he ever managed to cast him after seeing those.
Mohit revealed that if he had seen those over-the-top performances beforehand, he might not have cast Ahaan. He playfully called Ahaan a “fraud” for purposely sending those videos, knowing they weren’t his best work.
Untapped Potential
Despite the playful jab, Mohit Suri believes that *Saiyaara* has only scratched the surface of Ahaan’s talent. He mentioned Ahaan’s skills in dancing and comedy, suggesting there’s a whole other side to him waiting for a director to explore.
Beyond the Family Name
Ahaan Panday comes from a film family, being actor Chunky Panday’s nephew and Ananya Panday’s cousin. However, Mohit doesn’t see this as a typical “privileged background” scenario.
He highlighted that Ahaan was supposed to debut earlier but it didn’t work out. Ahaan has also spent seven years assisting various directors, gaining valuable industry experience on his own merit.
Saiyaara’s Box Office Success
*Saiyaara*, starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, has been a massive success at the box office. The film is quickly approaching the Rs 300 crore mark, receiving positive reviews from both audiences and critics alike.
- Mohit Suri initially found Ahaan Panday too well-mannered for the role of Krish Kapoor.
- A casual evening out helped Mohit see Ahaan’s true, “brash” personality, fitting the character.
- Ahaan playfully sent Mohit old, “bad audition” videos after filming, leading to the “fraud” comment.
- Mohit believes Ahaan has much more talent, including dance and comedy, yet to be fully showcased.
- Despite his film family background, Mohit noted Ahaan’s seven years of industry experience and previous career setbacks.
The director’s insights offer a glimpse into the casting process and the genuine camaraderie between the film’s cast and crew, contributing to its resounding success.
