In a recent social media post, filmmaker Milap Milan Zaveri lauded Mohit Suri's "Saiyaara," declaring it the "Film of the Year". Zaveri, known for directing films like "Marjaavaan" and writing "Satyameva Jayate", shared his heartfelt thoughts on Instagram, expressing regret for missing the film in theaters.
"Finally saw the film of the year #Saiyaara and want to kick myself for missing it in cinemas! There is nothing left to say about its brilliance that the entire world hasn't said already. But I'll still try! @mohitsuri you have crafted pure Love!," Zaveri wrote.
Zaveri didn't hold back in his praise for Suri, stating, "This is your best film not because it has made the most money but coz it's the purest film that you have made from your heart". He also lauded the performances of debutants Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda. "@ahaanpandayy you were born to be a star. And thus you now are! Your performance rips the heart apart and then mends it! Your eyes speak volumes be it love, pain, rage or dreams! What a fucking performance! @aneetpadda_ You define the word vulnerable, talent, beauty, and innocence!".
He further commended Yash Raj Films (YRF), Akshaye Widhani, and Sumana Ghosh for granting Suri the creative freedom to realize his vision. "@awidhani @sumanaghoshs @yrf take a bow for giving @mohitsuri the freedom to make HIS film the way HE wanted to! This is a masterpiece and he is surely a master! Huge congratulations to the entire team!!!" Zaveri exclaimed.
"Saiyaara," directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Yash Raj Films, stars debutants Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda in leading roles. The film hit theaters on July 18, 2025, and has been a commercial success, grossing over ₹579 crore worldwide. It has emerged as the second highest-grossing Hindi film of 2025 and the highest-grossing Indian romantic film of the year. The movie is loosely based on the 2004 Korean film "A Moment to Remember".
The film tells the story of Vaani, a writer, and Krish, a singer, who come from different backgrounds but connect through music. They collaborate and begin to fall in love while healing from past emotional scars. However, their relationship faces a tragic turn when Vaani is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. The film explores themes of love, loss, and memory.
"Saiyaara" features music by Mithoon, Tanishk Bagchi, Sachet-Parampara, Vishal Mishra and others, with lyrics by Irshad Kamil, Mithoon, and Raj Shekhar. The soundtrack has been well-received, contributing to the film's success.
Mohit Suri, known for directing films like "Aashiqui 2" and "Ek Villain," initially wanted a female lead who had not undergone any cosmetic procedures. Principal photography for "Saiyaara" commenced in September 2024 and concluded in March 2025.
"Saiyaara" received positive reviews from critics, with praise for the performances of Panday and Padda, Suri's direction, and the film's story and soundtrack. Taran Adarsh of Bollywood Hungama gave the film 4.5/5 stars, calling it a "stirring musical saga". Rishil Jogani of Pinkvilla rated it 3.5/5 stars, highlighting the stellar performances, enchanting music, and Suri's direction. The film was released on Netflix on September 12, 2025.
