The romantic drama Saiyaara, starring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, seems to have rekindled audiences’ affection for heartfelt love stories. The film’s unexpected success at the box office is raising eyebrows—and hopes—across the industry.

A Shift Away from the Usual Masal

Film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh notes that after years dominated by action-packed entertainers and horror comedies, Saiyaara signals a return to emotion-driven storytelling. “Romance had quietly slipped into the background, often reduced to side plots,” he explains. “Saiyaara brings pure, passionate love front and center again—and the audience is embracing it with open arms.”

According to Adarsh, this renewed interest isn’t just nostalgia. It reflects a genuine hunger among younger viewers for stories that speak to their emotions. “Saiyaara delivers what many have been missing—and that’s why the reaction has been so strong,” he adds.

Connecting with the Youth

Producer and industry expert Girish Johar believes the film’s emotional resonance and melodic soundtrack are key reasons why it’s winning hearts. “Viewers—especially the youth—are connecting deeply with the story,” he says. “Romantic films have always had a strong fanbase in India, and when made well, they thrive.”

Johar praises director Mohit Suri for his skillful execution and predicts that Saiyaara’s success will encourage filmmakers to revisit the genre more seriously. He’s optimistic about upcoming releases like Dhadak 2, featuring Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi, which already has high expectations ahead of its August 1 premiere.

Romance Isn’t Dead—It’s Just Getting Started

In a landscape filled with spectacle and scares, Saiyaara stands out as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the genre that built Bollywood’s identity. Experts agree: the tides may be turning once again toward stories that tug at the heartstrings.

Watch the space for more such Bollywood updates !