Saiyaara (2025): Can Two Newcomers Carry a Love Story This Big?

When Yash Raj Films decided to launch two fresh faces with Saiyaara, many wondered if newcomers could carry a love story on their shoulders. Director Mohit Suri, who’s made a name for himself with emotional dramas, takes the challenge head-on with Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda.

What unfolds on screen is a love story wrapped in melody and emotion. The July 18, 2025 release introduces us to a world where music becomes the language of love. Supporting actors like Rajesh Kumar and Alam Khan add texture, but this is very much a two-person show at its core.

The Plot

Krish Kapoor lives and breathes music. He’s got the talent and the fire, but his temper often gets the better of him. Then there’s Vaani Batra, who puts her thoughts into verses but keeps them hidden from the world. She’s nursing wounds from a relationship that didn’t work out.

Their worlds collide when they’re paired for a music project. What starts as a professional arrangement slowly transforms into something deeper. The studio sessions become a space where two damaged souls find comfort in each other. But life has other plans for them.

Performance Review

Watching Ahaan step into Krish’s shoes felt like watching someone who truly understood his character. He doesn’t just play a musician; he becomes one. The scenes where his character’s frustration bubbles over feel real because he doesn’t overdo the dramatics.

Aneet brings a quiet strength to Vaani that I really appreciated. She makes you believe in a woman who’s breaking inside but refuses to crumble completely. When these two share the screen, something clicks naturally. You’re not watching acting; you’re watching two people fall for each other.

The Music Factor

Let’s talk about what makes this film special , its soundtrack. With composers like Mithoon, Tanishk Bagchi, and Vishal Mishra contributing, the album feels like a complete musical journey. Each track serves the story rather than just being there for commercial appeal.

The title number hit me hard. Faheem Abdullah’s voice carries a rawness that fits perfectly with the film’s mood. Then there’s Jubin Nautiyal’s Barbaad which captures heartbreak in a way that lingers long after you’ve left the theater. These aren’t just songs , they’re emotional checkpoints in the narrative.

Strengths That Stand Out

I walked into the theater not expecting much, but the film surprised me with its emotional honesty. Suri knows how to craft moments that feel intimate without being intrusive. He lets scenes breathe, giving actors space to deliver performances that matter.

The way the film handles Vaani’s health struggles deserves mention. Instead of using it purely for sympathy, the narrative explores what it means to love someone when time becomes your enemy. There’s a maturity in the writing here that elevates standard romantic drama territory.

Where It Stumbles

Here’s where I have to be honest , the story doesn’t break new ground. I found myself recognizing beats from other films, which took away from the experience. When you can predict where scenes are heading, the emotional impact reduces significantly.

Some portions drag unnecessarily. I felt the second half could’ve been tighter. The film sometimes confuses length with depth, giving us stretched sequences when sharp editing would’ve worked better. The supporting characters barely get any development, which feels like a missed opportunity.

How Critics Responded

Rotten Tomatoes reported that 67% of reviewers gave positive feedback. Bollywood Hungama’s critic awarded it 4.5 stars, calling attention to Suri’s directorial skills. On IMDb, audience members settled on a 6.4 rating, suggesting decent but not overwhelming appreciation.

What came through in most reviews was appreciation for the music and the fresh pairing. People seemed willing to overlook the familiar storyline because the execution had heart. Viewers looking for a traditional love story found plenty to enjoy, while those wanting something groundbreaking felt let down.

My Final Take

Saiyaara won’t change how romantic films are made, but it succeeds in what it attempts. This is a film that wears its heart on its sleeve and doesn’t apologize for being emotional. The music alone justifies a watch, and seeing two newcomers hold their own adds to the appeal.

For someone who enjoys love stories with soul-stirring songs, this delivers. Yes, you’ve seen similar stories before, but the sincerity in the performances makes it worth your time. Ahaan and Aneet prove they have what it takes to make careers in this industry.

Rating: 3.5/5