Casting director recalls Saiyaara star Ahaan Panday refusing to meet her at 19: ‘He thought we would reject him because he was tanned…’ |

Ahaan Panday’s path to stardom began long before Saiyaara. Casting director Shanoo Sharma spotted him at 19. Ahaan initially hesitated due to his looks. He later became part of the YRF family. Director Mohit Suri says Ahaan and Aneet Padda are enjoying the film’s success. Saiyaara has earned over Rs 300 crore. Ahaan is now a successful debutant.

Ahaan Panday may be enjoying massive success with Saiyaara today, but his journey started long before the film hit theatres. A recent interview has revealed how a missed meeting, early doubts, and years of preparation led to one of Bollywood’s biggest debuts in recent times.

Spotted at 19, but looked 15

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, YRF’s casting director Shanoo shared that she first approached Ahaan Panday when he was just 19. She revealed that Ahaan has been part of the journey with her for nearly nine years, highlighting the long association leading up to his blockbuster debut in Saiyaara.

Turning doubts into determination

Sharma recalled that when she first reached out to Ahaan Panday, he was just 19 but looked much younger—around 15. She had come across a quirky post of his online that piqued her interest and prompted her to ask for a meeting. However, Ahaan initially declined, assuming he wouldn’t be considered because of his tanned complexion and unconventional looks. But when they finally did meet, Shanoo immediately felt confident that they were going to work together.Following their first meeting, Ahaan quickly became an unofficial part of the YRF family, well before Saiyaara even went on floors. Casting director Shanoo Sharma recalled how eager he was to learn—raw, ambitious, and full of charm. His dedication stood out, especially his deep admiration for YRF. He was so driven that he would often express his intent to show up at the studio every single day.

Enjoying the spotlight

In an earlier interview with NDTV, Saiyaara director Mohit Suri spoke about how debutants Ahaan and Aneet Padda are cherishing every moment of their film’s success. He mentioned that he stays in touch with them daily, with the actors frequently sending him videos and updates about how they’re being recognised and celebrated. Both Ahaan and Aneet are thrilled by the overwhelming response and often express a desire for him to be present to share the experience with them.Mohit shared that the actors are enjoying the success of Saiyaara and taking it all in, even if they’re unsure of what’s next. With over Rs 300 crore at the box office, Ahaan is now one of Bollywood’s most successful debutants.