Aneet Padda's Emotional Journey: From Self-Doubt to Breakout Role in 'Saiyaara'

In July 2025, the romantic drama 'Saiyaara' marked the debut of Ahaan Panday and the breakthrough role of Aneet Padda. Directed by Mohit Suri, the film tells the story of a passionate musician, Krish Kapoor (Ahaan Panday), and a reserved poet, Vaani Batra (Aneet Padda), as they collaborate to create music and heal from emotional wounds.

Despite the praise that came her way after her previous role in 'Big Girls Don't Cry', Aneet Padda recently opened up about the emotional turbulence she experienced. Balancing college and acting, she often struggled with anxiety, self-doubt, and the fear of financial instability in the entertainment industry. Aneet shared that she felt "unsettled" while managing studies and shoots, and that being on set sometimes felt "culturally different" since she was surrounded by "big people."

However, Aneet credited the creators of 'Big Girls Don't Cry', Nitya Mehra and Karan Kapadia, as her "Bombay parents," sharing that their encouragement came at a time when she needed reassurance about her talent and future. Around that same period, when she was 19, Aneet received a call from casting director Shanoo Sharma, who invited her to audition for Yash Raj Films. Although Aneet had to decline due to college commitments and a packed travel schedule, she described the moment as special, saying, "Even getting that call from her (Sharma) was huge."

After completing her studies, Aneet decided to reconnect with Sharma, and that meeting ultimately led to her audition for 'Saiyaara' -- and her breakthrough role.