Saiyaara has quietly pulled off something few expected—it’s now ranked as the 22nd biggest hit in the history of Hindi cinema. Directed by Mohit Suri and starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, the film has outpaced massive titles like Jr NTR’s RRR and Aamir Khan’s Dhoom 3 in box office numbers, making industry insiders sit up and take notice.
Here’s what’s driving Saiyaara’s unexpected success.
From Modest Buzz to Massive Collections
When Saiyaara released, it wasn’t promoted as a mega-budget event film. It didn’t rely on a superstar’s pull or franchise hype. But word of mouth did the trick. With its strong storytelling, emotional depth, and a fresh lead pair, the film found loyal audiences both in theatres and on social media.
The consistent growth in its earnings, even weeks after release, has helped it climb the all-time box office charts.
Why This Matters for the Hindi Film Industry
For years, big-budget films with established stars have dominated the rankings. Saiyaara’s entry into the top 25 changes that narrative. It signals that audiences, especially in Tier 2 cities, are open to newer faces and grounded storytelling if the content strikes a chord.
It also reflects a shift in viewing trends where emotional connection and relatability are just as important as star power and scale.
Strong Word of Mouth in Smaller Cities
Much of Saiyaara’s strength came from smaller cities and towns. In places like Nagpur, Indore, Kanpur, and Ranchi, single screens and mid-sized multiplexes reported full shows well beyond the first week.
Its music—another Mohit Suri hallmark—also contributed heavily to its traction. The soundtrack resonated strongly with younger audiences, further boosting repeat viewings.
Conclusion: A New Kind of Blockbuster?
Saiyaara’s climb to the 22nd spot isn’t just a win for the makers—it’s a sign that Bollywood’s audience is evolving. Hits today are not just built on star names, but on sincerity, emotion, and a good story.
For upcoming filmmakers and debut actors, Saiyaara is proof that there’s space for newcomers at the top—if they can truly connect with the audience