In a candid conversation with PTI, Suri revealed the reasons behind walking away from a sure-shot blockbuster formula and opting to build something fresh from the ground up.
Why Mohit Suri Didn't Take On Aashiqui 3
According to Mohit, the production team behind Aashiqui 3 was eager to get the project off the ground quickly. However, Suri, known for his emotionally layered storytelling, was unwilling to compromise his creative process just to meet timelines.
"The Aashiqui 3 thing... it was too nascent. They had asked me if I would be interested in making it. This was the idea I had. But I don't commit to something till I have a script ready. They were in a hurry to begin, so I was more than glad when Anurag (Basu) took over," he explained.
Suri's statement makes it clear: he values storytelling over speed, and would rather pass on a high-profile sequel than rush a half-baked vision.
Saiyaara: A Film Made Without the Pressure of Expectations
Saiyaara marked a significant shift for Suri. Unlike Aashiqui 3, there were no franchise burdens, no legacy pressure, and no star-studded cast carrying opening-day expectations. And for the director, that made all the difference.
"Once there was no sequel pressure or of a star cast which had an opening number to live up to, I stopped caring about the commerce. And I just went and made a film," said Suri.
Without having to worry about comparisons to Aashiqui 2—a film that helped launch Arijit Singh and became a cultural phenomenon—Mohit felt liberated. He no longer needed to play the commercial game of topping a predecessor’s success. Instead, he could focus purely on crafting an emotionally honest film.
Creative Freedom vs Box Office Strategy
In Suri’s words, directing Saiyaara was a “liberating process.” He wasn’t forced to manufacture hit songs or cast big stars for the sake of opening weekend numbers. Instead, he committed to authentic storytelling, casting Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda—newcomers who brought freshness and vulnerability to their roles.
“If I was making a sequel, or a franchise, I would be somewhere playing to a commerce like 'Let's make it better than Aashiqui 2. Let's make the music better'. I didn’t do that. I did what’s best for the film.”
This unfiltered approach not only allowed the film to breathe artistically but also connected deeply with audiences, proving that substance still has a strong place in cinema.
Saiyaara's Box Office Triumph and Critical Acclaim
Released on July 18, Saiyaara turned into a surprise blockbuster, earning over Rs 300 crore and receiving widespread praise for its heartfelt performances and soulful music. The film follows Krish (Ahaan Panday), an ambitious musician, and Vaani (Aneet Padda), a reserved lyricist navigating the pain of heartbreak.
The story struck a chord with young audiences, and the chemistry between the leads added emotional depth. Supporting performances by Geeta Agarwal, Rajesh Kumar, Varun Badola, and Shaad Randhawa further elevated the film’s narrative.
Even producer Aditya Chopra, after watching the rough cut, had full confidence in the film’s potential.
“He predicted that it would cross Rs 100 crore,” Suri revealed—highlighting the belief in the film even before its release.
The Silent Stars: A Strategy of Subtlety in Promotions
Another intriguing aspect of Saiyaara’s rollout was the decision to keep the lead actors out of promotional activities—a strategy that might have surprised many but wasn't new, according to Suri. The intent was to let the film speak for itself and not rely on the conventional marketing machinery.
This approach worked brilliantly. Audiences embraced the freshness and sincerity of the characters without being influenced by overexposure or media hype. It proved once again that authenticity resonates louder than fanfare.
From Aashiqui to Saiyaara: A Director's Creative Evolution
Mohit Suri’s decision to walk away from a guaranteed hit like Aashiqui 3 was not just about avoiding pressure—it was about prioritizing the integrity of storytelling. In doing so, he reminded both audiences and the industry that meaningful cinema still has a powerful place in an era obsessed with franchises and formulas.
His bold step resulted in one of the year’s biggest cinematic surprises, and Saiyaara has now carved its own place in the hearts of millions—without the crutch of legacy or stardom.
Final Thoughts: Why Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara Matters
In a film industry that often leans heavily on sequels, stars, and numbers, Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara is a refreshing reminder of what real storytelling looks like. Free from the burdens of expectation, it allowed the filmmaker to rediscover his voice and connect with audiences on a deeper, emotional level.
By choosing creative fulfillment over commercial obligation, Mohit has set a new benchmark—not just for himself but for Indian filmmakers at large.
And as Saiyaara continues to soar, it’s clear: sometimes, walking away from a franchise is the best way to find your freedom.
