Ameesha Patel Celebrates Newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda in Saiyaara

Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel has expressed her support for newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, whose performances in the romantic drama Saiyaara have garnered widespread acclaim. While she commended their debut, Patel also emphasized the importance of distinguishing their film from her own iconic debut, Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, which remains a classic in the industry.

In an exclusive interview with Zoom, Patel praised the energy and talent of the new generation of actors. “I think both of them did a tremendous job, and my congratulations to them,” she stated. She noted that Saiyaara resonates particularly with younger audiences, saying, “It was high time; this industry needs a few fresh faces.” Patel highlighted the film’s appeal, suggesting that it has captured the attention of Gen Z, a demographic she believes is crucial for the future of Bollywood.

Patel Pushes Back Against Comparisons

A recurring topic in discussions about Saiyaara is the frequent comparisons to Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai. While Patel appreciates the legacy of her debut film, she argued against direct parallels. “Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai is a very happy film. It had humour, had music, had everything,” she explained. “You can’t compare apples and oranges.” Patel expressed pride in the new film, asserting that it offers relatable characters for contemporary viewers.

She continued, “I’m just glad that Gen Z has a set of actors they can relate to, and a film they could grab onto.” This sentiment reflects her belief that the industry must embrace fresh talent to thrive in the future.

Nurturing Young Talent for Bollywood’s Future

Patel is passionate about the need to nurture young actors, emphasizing that they are the stars of tomorrow. She remarked, “I really hope makers do give newcomers, capable newcomers, a lot more opportunities.” The actress believes that even inexperienced actors can deliver compelling performances, a notion she feels is vital for the industry’s longevity.

She warned that without cultivating new talent, Bollywood could face significant challenges. “Six, seven years from today, when these superstars are retired or semi-retired, who will take Bollywood ahead?” Patel asked. She urged filmmakers to invest in new talent to ensure the continued attraction of cinema for audiences.

The success of Saiyaara is a promising sign, as it has emerged as one of Bollywood’s biggest box office hits. Directed by Mohit Suri, the film has achieved the status of the highest-grossing Hindi romantic film of all time, attracting audiences worldwide and marking a significant milestone for both Panday and Padda.

Patel’s insights reflect a broader conversation within the industry about the importance of innovation and the need for fresh faces. As Bollywood continues to evolve, her call for nurturing new talent resonates with many who wish to see the industry thrive in the years to come.