Following the blockbuster success of his debut film Saiyaara, rising Gen-Z star Ahaan Panday has reportedly secured his second feature film, a big-ticket action-romance under the banner of Yash Raj Films (YRF). The project will be helmed by acclaimed director Ali Abbas Zafar, marking a highly anticipated reunion between the filmmaker and the production house.
According to industry reports, Zafar, known for massive hits like Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai, will be returning to his roots by directing a compelling action-romance, a genre that blends his strength in dramatic storytelling with high-octane action. This film will be Zafar’s fifth collaboration with YRF.
Sources suggest that YRF head Aditya Chopra was instrumental in casting Ahaan Panday for the lead role, having been thoroughly impressed by the actor’s emotional range and screen presence in Saiyaara.
A source close to the development revealed, “Ali Abbas Zafar has been developing an action-romance with Aditya Chopra as his next directorial. He was particularly impressed by Ahaan Panday’s aura with emotional and dramatic scenes in Saiyaara… Aditya Chopra feels Ahaan’s underexposure is his biggest strength because after Saiyaara‘s success, people will now be all the more excited to see what he does next.”
The film is designed to present a completely new facet of Ahaan’s talent, placing him in a world where intense passion, romance, and action converge with hard-hitting drama.
The script is reportedly locked, and music sittings are already underway. The untitled project is tentatively scheduled to begin filming in the first quarter of 2026.
Key Highlights:
- Second Film Secured: Actor Ahaan Panday, fresh off his successful debut Saiyaara, has signed his second film.
- YRF-Ali Abbas Zafar Collaboration: The film is an action-romance produced by Yash Raj Films (YRF) and will be directed by Ali Abbas Zafar (Sultan, Tiger Zinda Hai).
- Genre and Production: The project is an action-romance, a genre Zafar is highly acclaimed for, and is scheduled to commence shooting in the first quarter of 2026.
- Casting Rationale: YRF’s Aditya Chopra reportedly suggested Ahaan for the role after being impressed by his performance in Saiyaara, aiming to showcase a new, action-oriented side of the young star.