Ahaan Panday's Bollywood debut film, Saiyaara, which was released on July 18, 2025, has already stirred a buzz, not just for marking the entry of a fresh face but also due to comparisons being drawn with the Korean film A Moment to Remember. Directed by Mohit Suri, known for his intense romantic dramas, Saiyaara stars Panday alongside Aneet Padda, and the storyline's emotional depth has quickly resonated with audiences, leading to a strong opening at the box office.

Saiyaara tells the story of Krish Kapoor (Ahaan Panday), a rising musician, and Vaani Batra (Aneet Padda), a budding journalist. Their relationship blossoms, but faces a severe test when Vaani is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. This premise has led many viewers to draw parallels with the 2004 South Korean hit, A Moment to Remember.

A Moment to Remember, directed by John H. Lee, features a young couple whose love is challenged when the woman is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The film was a major success, both domestically and in Japan, and has inspired several adaptations. The similarities in the theme of memory loss and its impact on a romantic relationship have prompted speculation about Saiyaara being an adaptation.

Despite the thematic similarities, there has been no official confirmation that Saiyaara is a remake of A Moment to Remember. Saiyaara is presented by Aditya Chopra, directed by Mohit Suri, and produced by Akshaye Widhani. The film is described as an intense love story that explores the challenges faced by the young couple. Mohit Suri is known for films like Aashiqui 2 and Ek Villain, and Saiyaara is said to carry the brooding intensity of a Mahesh Bhatt romance within a Yash Raj Films production.

A review in The Times of India notes that Saiyaara incorporates elements relevant to the new-age world of social media, reels, and collaborations. Sankalp Sadanah's screenplay is described as an interweave of old-fashioned romance with millennial and Gen Z anxieties about forming lasting relationships. The film's music, composed by Tanishk Bagchi, Faheem Abdullah, Arslan Nizami, Mithoon, and Sachet-Parampara, is also a highlight.

Ahaan Panday's performance has been well-received, with critics noting his confident debut and screen presence. Aneet Padda, who has previously appeared in Big Girls Don't Cry and Salaam Venky, is also praised for her portrayal of Vaani.

Whether Saiyaara is directly inspired by A Moment to Remember or not, the film has made a strong start, with positive word of mouth potentially driving further growth over the weekend. The film had advance bookings crossing Rs 9.39 crore, thanks to impressive ticket sales. Initial estimates suggest the film has earned an impressive Rs 20 crore on its opening day.