Kunal Kohli praises 'Saiyaara', slams Bollywood stars: 'Today’s heroes have killed music'

Mohit Suri’s much-anticipated romantic drama 'Saiyaara' is creating massive pre-release waves, breaking records even before hitting the silver screen. Featuring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, the film has become the biggest debut launch in two decades which is fueled by emotional storytelling, soul-stirring music, and a nostalgic return to Bollywood romance.

According to News 18, in an impressive feat, 'Saiyaara' has already sold 1.90 lakh tickets at national multiplex chains (PVR Inox and Cinepolis) ahead of its release on July 18. Industry experts predict that by the time the first show rolls out, the number may well cross 2 lakh—a staggering benchmark for a debut film.

A record in the making

See more: ‘Saiyaara’ Movie Review and Release Live Updates

'Saiyaara' has outpaced several high-profile, star-studded films in pre-sales, including Salman Khan’s 'Sikandar' (1.43 lakh), Akshay Kumar’s 'Housefull 5' (94,750), and Ajay Devgn’s 'Raid 2' (93,000).

Reportedly, the only 2025 film ahead of it in advance bookings is 'Chhaava' which had sold 2.23 lakh tickets. With such momentum, Saiyaara is projected to open with Rs 18–20 crore nett on Day 1.

A love story that feels like home

At the heart of 'Saiyaara' is a sweeping love story which is passionate, painful, and poetic. Singer Palak Muchhal, after watching a special screening, shared, “Watched Saiyaara last night… and I’m still carrying its emotions in my heart. It’s been a while since a film moved me so deeply — Saiyaara is not just a love story, it’s a journey of emotion, pain, healing, and timeless connection. A story that truly needed to be told, and told the way it has been. So proud of @mohitsuri — having worked with him, I’ve seen his passion up close, but what he’s created here goes beyond passion… it’s pure magic. The storytelling, the screenplay, the way every moment unfolds — it lingers long after the credits roll. And the music… Every note elevates the narrative. A special place in my heart for Dhan, by @mithoon11, which is such a soul-stirring part of the film’s heart.”

The return of romance and real music

The film’s musical soul which is crafted by Mithoon, Faheem Abdullah, Vishal Mishra, Sachet–Parampara, Arslan Nizami, and Tanishk Bagchi has received good responses from the listeners.