Saiyaara has turned out to be the biggest surprise box office hit of this year, with new talents like Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda leading the movie. The new faces have definitely been a hit among the Gen-Z crowd, but one interesting fact about the movie they don’t know is that Ahaan Panday’s character in Saiyaara was actually inspired by none other than ace cricketer Virat Kohli.
Mohit Suri Reveals Getting Inspired By Virat Kohli
In an interview, director Mohit Suri recently spilt the beans on this surprising twist, saying that his meeting with Kohli years ago actually influenced the character’s mindset. The tale dates back to when Kohli had not yet turned into a familiar face. Suri had chanced upon him at a nightclub, where the budding cricketer chatted with unflinching confidence about his prospects. Although early in his career at that time, Kohli was sure he would be among the world’s best players.
That unwavering belief left a deep impression on Suri. Speaking more about the instance, he shared it was Virat Kohli’s self-assurance, which he had even before he was successful made a lasting impact. So when he was working on Krish’s character in Saiyaara, he drew from that memory, which was about a young man who was burning with ambition, sure of his place in the world even before anyone else saw it or believed it.
Suri also noted that what made Kohli’s story so compelling wasn’t just his achievements, but the way he handled setbacks. “He’s had incredible highs and some real lows, but he always finds a way to come back stronger,” Suri said, explaining that Krish’s resilience and drive were written with that same energy in mind.
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More than just a sports connection, Suri said Kohli’s attitude influenced his own work ethic and creative philosophy. He admired how Kohli didn’t just chase records but contributed to the sport in a way that left a legacy. That’s what he wanted to do with Saiyaara, not just make a hit film, but create something that left a mark
Produced by Yash Raj Films, Saiyaara stormed 2025. Starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda in key roles, the film explores two artists’ quest for love and success and has already earned nearly 300 crore.
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