Academics to acting: What Ahaan Panday studied before starring in ‘Saiyaara'

Time of India

18-07-2025

Ahaan Panday's journey to Bollywood stardom is unique. Instead of jumping straight into acting, he studied filmmaking at Oberoi International School and the University of Mumbai. Combining formal education with hands-on experience as an assistant director, he made his debut in Yash Raj Films' Saiyaara on July 18, 2025.
Ahead of his acting debut in 'Saiyaara' with
Yash Raj Films
,
Ahaan Panday
took a measured approach to entering the film industry. Instead of seeking fame on the red carpet, he dedicated himself to learning through classes and on-set experience, steadily preparing before stepping into the limelight.
Choosing Education Over Instant Fame
While many star kids dive directly into acting, Ahaan took a different route. Instead of starting with auditions, he focused on learning storyboarding, camera techniques, and film theory. As formal education gains popularity among emerging actors, Ahaan's approach highlights how studying the craft can create a solid foundation for a sustainable career in cinema.
Early Education that Sparked Interest
Ahaan's education began at Oberoi International School in Mumbai, a school recognized for its International Baccalaureate program and emphasis on nurturing creativity.
Early exposure to performing arts and global studies there fueled his interest in storytelling and visual media. He then advanced to the University of Mumbai, where he pursued a degree in Cinematic Arts. His studies encompassed scriptwriting, editing, directing, and post-production, often involving collaborative projects.
A Growing Trend in Film Education
According to The Lallantop, Ahaan's choice to study filmmaking is part of a growing trend.
With more people watching shows on OTT platforms and expecting better performances, many young actors are now studying film formally. Film schools in India are getting more students who want to learn all parts of filmmaking, not just acting. What makes Ahaan's journey special is that he studied and also worked on real sets. He was an assistant director for movies like 'Freaky Ali', 'Rock On 2', and Netflix's 'The Railway Men'.
Making the Most of His Debut
'Saiyaara', which premiered on July 18, 2025, under the banner of Yash Raj Films, is Ahaan's first film on the big screen. Rather than just marking his arrival in the industry, this project represents an opportunity for him to put into practice the skills.