In the spotlight, the rise of “Saiyaara” to the top spot on Netflix comes as no surprise, captivating an audience yearning for a classic Hindi love tale. Mohit Suri’s latest creation arrives in a cinematic landscape where romance often takes a backseat to spectacle, remakes, or clichéd romcom themes. However, “Saiyaara” dares to confront love head-on, resonating with both youthful viewers craving intensity and older audiences nostalgic for a time when music and memories intertwined.
The essence of the film revolves around Krish Kapoor, a passionate and driven young musician portrayed by Ahaan Panday, and Vaani Batra, a lyricist played by Aneet Padda. Together, they experience the highs of love and the harsh reality of time when Vaani is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. What initially began as a fusion of music and words evolves into a profound exploration of love when memory starts slipping away.
The film starts off with a strong and confident tone, distancing itself from the superficial romance prevalent in Hindi cinema. Krish is introduced as a talented but self-absorbed singer who rebels against critics favoring nepotism over talent. The irony of Ahaan Panday, hailing from a notable film family, criticizing nepotism adds a clever self-awareness to the narrative. In contrast, Vaani is portrayed through her words, revealing a woman who turned to silence after heartbreak, only to find her voice again through collaboration with Krish. Their initial interactions spark a genuine yet cinematic tension reminiscent of classic Bollywood romances.
Music serves as the lifeblood of the film, with Suri relying heavily on it to set the mood and evoke emotions. The title track, “Saiyaara,” lingers in the mind like his most memorable tunes, while the entire soundtrack offers a variety that can be hummed outside the cinema or played repeatedly at home. The strategic use of music to delve into the characters’ inner worlds is reminiscent of Suri’s past works like “Aashiqui 2” or “Ek Villain.” The film blurs the lines between character and melody, with moments where performances feel like an extension of Krish and Vaani’s emotional struggles.
However, the film’s flaw lies in its uneven transition between the two halves. The first half brims with energy, music, and witty exchanges, engaging the audience in a dialogue of nostalgia and modern anxieties. The second half, on the other hand, leans heavily on melodrama, introducing far-fetched plot twists like Vaani’s ex-fiancé’s return and a stretched missing-person subplot. Despite these shortcomings, “Saiyaara” maintains a sincerity rarely seen in mainstream Hindi cinema today.
Both newcomers deliver commendable performances. Ahaan Panday embodies Krish with the charisma and presence of a star, though at times, his acting veers into a mannerism that needs restraint. Aneet impresses as Vaani, infusing her character with intelligence and emotional depth, making her more than just a support to Krish. Their chemistry anchors the film, elevating it beyond its occasional excesses.
In essence, “Saiyaara” prompts a reflection on the current state of Hindi romance, questioning whether every love story must involve illness, trauma, or tragedy to be impactful. While the film occasionally stretches credibility, its sincere portrayal of musical romance as a serious cinematic genre resonates with audiences. Despite its flaws, “Saiyaara” offers a refreshing take on romance, reminding viewers of the enduring power of emotions evoked by music, glances, and dialogues.