Filmmaker Mohit Suri and producer Akshaye Widhani spoke at FICCI Frames 2025 about their surprise blockbuster Saiyaara. During the session, Mohit revealed how Aditya Chopra and Widhani first watched a rough cut of the film months before its release.
The edit lasted over three hours, yet Aditya confidently predicted, “Even if this film opens to Rs. 4–5 crores, it will still do Rs. 100 crores.” Mohit said he was surprised by Aditya’s belief, even in its unfinished form.
He recalled that the last time he received such a strong response was for Aashiqui 2 in 2013. That film wasn’t planned either, and when he tried repeating the formula in Hamari Adhuri Kahaani, it didn’t connect the same way.
Mohit confirmed that he’s now in talks with Yash Raj Films for a new project. He shared how audiences, especially older women, have embraced Saiyaara’s humour, calling it a refreshing change in feedback.
He said, “I’ve never had 60-year-old aunties tell me, ‘Beta, jeete raho. Bahut acchi picture banayi.’ It feels different and rewarding.”
Mohit also shared advice from his mentors: you can’t force a formula that once worked; you have to begin again with honesty. His hint at a possible YRF collaboration has already stirred excitement among movie lovers waiting for his next big story.
