Deanne Panday, mother of rising star Ahaan Panday, celebrated her son's recent achievement at the CNN-News18 Indian of the Year 2025 awards, where he received the GenZ Icon Award. This marks Ahaan's first major award since his debut in the blockbuster romantic drama, ‘Saiyaara’. The film, directed by Mohit Suri, also stars Aneet Padda, who shared the GenZ Icon Award with Ahaan.

The award ceremony, held on Friday, saw Ahaan expressing his gratitude to those who supported him throughout his journey. He specifically thanked his parents, acknowledging their unwavering support. "I want to thank all the people who helped me. For starters, my mumma and my papa. I know you will be watching this and be very happy,” Ahaan stated.

Ahaan also extended his thanks to Mohit Suri, the director of ‘Saiyaara,’ recognizing the significant impact Suri had on his career. "Mohit Suri, you have given me life. You have given me something that, in my wildest imagination, I couldn't have dreamed of," he said. He also thanked Shanoo Sharma for believing in him despite the presence of "naysayers" and Aditya Chopra for providing him with the platform to showcase his talent.

Aneet Padda, Ahaan's co-star, also expressed her gratitude upon receiving the award. She acknowledged Ahaan's support during the challenging times on the set of ‘Saiyaara’. "Thank you to my co-actor and my best friend, Ahaan Panday... You guys don't realize the number of times it's been really difficult on set, and he has always had my back," Aneet shared. She added, "It's the best feeling in the world to be sharing the stage with one of the best men in the world".

‘Saiyaara,’ which premiered on July 18, 2025, was a significant milestone for both Ahaan and Aneet. The film, produced by Yash Raj Films CEO Akshay Widhani, marked Ahaan's acting debut and Aneet's first lead role, although she had previously appeared in ‘Salaam Venky’ and ‘Big Girls Don't Cry’. ‘Saiyaara’ was Mohit Suri's return to direction, and it has become one of the highest-grossing films of 2025, earning over ₹500 crore worldwide.

Ahaan's speech also touched upon the hard work and practice he put in before achieving this recognition. “I think any artist has dreamed of coming on a stage and accepting their first award,” he said. He also humorously added, “I've practised in front of my bathroom mirror many times, at least 300 to 400 times. But I didn't expect the possibility of me being completely and utterly speechless on such a big stage".

The on-screen chemistry between Ahaan and Aneet has led to speculation about their relationship status. However, Ahaan clarified that they are best friends, emphasizing the comfort and support they provide each other. He stated, “Aneet is my best friend. The whole internet thinks we're together, but we're not. Chemistry isn't always romantic -- it's about comfort, safety, and being seen. We've both made each other feel that. Even though she's not my girlfriend, I'll never have a bond like I have with Aneet".

Looking ahead, Ahaan Panday is set to appear in an action-romance film directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, while Aneet Padda will be seen in her upcoming project ‘Shakti Shalini’.