Saiyaara Sees Massive Growth in Theatres as Word-of-Mouth Drives Box Office Surge

In just a few weeks since its release, Saiyaara has gone from being a newcomer at the box office to a nationwide hit. The film, starring debutants Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, has crossed the ₹150 crore mark—and more remarkably, it’s now showing on over 2000 screens, up from just 800 when it first released. The film’s success is being seen as a clear sign that strong storytelling and audience connect still matter more than star power.

A Strong Start, and Then a Surge

While Saiyaara opened to modest expectations, the film gained serious momentum through strong word-of-mouth. Early viewers praised its emotional depth, relatable performances, and grounded direction. This positive chatter led to packed shows in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities alike, especially in places like Nagpur, Bhopal, Lucknow, and Surat.

What started as a limited release quickly snowballed into a nationwide demand for more screens—leading to a 2.5x increase in show count.

Newcomers Breaking Through

Ahaan Panday, making his debut with this film, has surprised many with his restrained and natural performance. Paired with Aneet Padda, the two have struck a chord with younger audiences, particularly in college towns and smaller cities. Their fresh chemistry and rooted characters seem to have offered a welcome change from the over-polished leads typical of many Bollywood launches.

Why the Film Worked

What really sets Saiyaara apart is its focus on a universally resonant story. Viewers across demographics have found the narrative authentic and emotionally moving. There’s no over-the-top glamour, no forced comedy, no gimmicks. The storytelling is clean, the pacing sharp, and the characters grounded.

In an industry often driven by hype, this film’s journey shows what can happen when audiences feel truly connected to what’s on screen.

Impact on Theatres and Future Films

With more single screens and multiplexes now dedicating prime time slots to Saiyaara, the ripple effect is already visible. Distributors are reconsidering screen allocation strategies, and production houses are now eyeing the possibility of launching newcomers through meaningful scripts rather than splashy promotions.

In Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, especially, local audiences are turning up in large numbers—not just for the film, but for the experience of watching something that feels made for them.

The Bottom Line

Saiyaara is proving that strong content, relatable performances, and genuine storytelling still have a solid place in Indian cinema. Its rise from 800 to 2000 screens is not just a business win—it’s a cultural signal that audiences are ready to support meaningful cinema, even when it comes with no legacy names or over-the-top promotions.