While Ahaan Panday is currently basking in the success of his debut film Saiyaara, alongside Aneet Padda, many may not know that his entry into Bollywood could have happened much earlier, with a superhero film opposite Ajay Devgn.
In 2020, reports surfaced that Ahaan Panday was set to make his debut in a Yash Raj Films (YRF) superhero franchise, with Ajay Devgn playing the antagonist. The film was to be directed by Shiv Rawail, son of filmmaker Rahul Rawail, marking his directorial debut as well. This project was reportedly part of YRF's 50th-anniversary celebrations, a blueprint of which was to be revealed by Aditya Chopra.
The Ajay Devgn superhero film was planned as a franchise, with Ahaan Panday as the protagonist. According to sources, the film had a budget that would come close to ₹180 crore, making it one of Ajay Devgn's costliest films. It was also said that the franchise was a long-term launch plan for Ahaan, potentially the most expensive and extensive launch in Hindi film history. Reportedly, Ajay Devgn's character was designed to be fantastic, with phenomenal action, acting, and screen time. He was to play a baddie in the first installment of the superhero series.
However, this project never materialized. Instead, Ahaan Panday debuted in Saiyaara, a romantic drama directed by Mohit Suri. Saiyaara explores themes of love, loss, and healing. The movie features soulful music and the chemistry between Ahaan and Aneet Padda, which earned praise from critics and audiences alike.
Saiyaara has been described as a soft place for bruised hearts to land, especially for today's generation. The film reminds audiences that both heartbreak and healing can be beautiful.