Saiyaara and the Return of Romance in Bollywood

Krish and Vaani’s soulful romance redefines Bollywood love stories.

In a week filled with cultural milestones, two moments stood out. While over 40 crore viewers tuned in to witness India’s young cricket team hold its ground at Old Trafford, Indian cinema celebrated a different victory — the triumphant release of Saiyaara, a romantic film led by debutants, which earned nearly ₹200 crore in its opening week. Its success signifies more than just box office numbers — it marks the return of the tragic love story to mainstream Bollywood.

A New Tune, An Old Emotion

Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara brings back the emotional intensity that once defined Hindi cinema. Through the story of Krish, a passionate singer, and Vaani, a heartbroken poet, the film explores how music and words intertwine to heal wounded souls. Their love story isn’t flamboyant — it's fragile, real, and familiar. In an age ruled by Instagram reels and dating apps, Saiyaara offers a refreshing reminder of emotional depth.

The Allure of Tragic Romance

Tragic love stories have always had a special place in Indian cinema. When mainstream formulas faltered, Bollywood turned to tales of heartache to re-connect with audiences. From Bobby and Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak to Maine Pyar Kiyaand Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, generations have embraced stories where love meets resistance — social, familial, or personal.

After the failure of Aditya Chopra’s Befikre, even Yash Raj Films seemed to abandon the genre. But now, with Saiyaara, the studio’s low-key approach appears to have paid off. The film reclaims Bollywood’s emotional core — a space once filled with poetry, pain, and passion.

Suri’s Signature Style

Mohit Suri’s directorial voice is distinct — he draws heavily from Korean romantic dramas, known for their emphasis on emotion, family, and sacrifice. At the same time, his films echo the melancholic tone of his mentor Mahesh Bhatt’s era, where music played a central narrative role. Saiyaara continues this tradition, with Irshad Kamil’s lyrics capturing the emotional vulnerability of the characters.

Ahaan and Aneet: A Breath of Fresh Air

One of the reasons Saiyaara resonates is its casting. Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda bring youthful honesty and vulnerability to their roles. They are not burdened by stardom, and that helps them connect. While Ahaan reminds audiences of a young Sanjay Dutt, Aneet’s performance draws comparisons to Alia Bhatt’s early work. She conveys emotions with subtlety and depth, offering a refreshing alternative to the standardised female leads of recent years.

Not Just Nostalgia

While comparisons to Korean films like A Moment to Remember have been made, it’s important to note that themes of memory, love, and loss are universal. Whether it's Sadma, Tere Naam, or Deedar, Bollywood has always found meaning in stories where memory — or the lack of it — shapes love’s journey.

A Genre Reignited

The success of Saiyaara has re-ignited Bollywood’s interest in romance. Dharma Productions is set to release Dhadak 2, tackling caste as a hurdle in love, and filmmaker Anand L. Rai is returning with Tere Ishq Mein. After years of high-octane action and spy thrillers, Bollywood seems ready to feel again.

Conclusion

Saiyaara is not just a film — it's a reminder that stories of heartbreak, longing, and healing still matter. It signals the return of the timeless love story — one that may break hearts, but also binds generations. As the pathos of romance returns to the big screen, one thing is clear: tragic love never truly goes out of style.

💬 Did Saiyaara strike a chord with your heart? Share your favourite moment or line from the film in the comments below — let’s celebrate the return of timeless love stories together! 💖