What Saiyaara's Ahaan Panday studied before becoming a YRF hero: His journey from schooling to prepping for Bollywood

Before making his acting debut with Saiyaara under Yash Raj Films on 18 July 2025, Ahaan Panday was quietly preparing for a life in cinema, not on red carpets, but in classrooms and on sets. His approach was slow and steady, with a clear focus on learning the craft before stepping into the spotlight.

In an era where many star kids jump straight into films, Ahaan’s journey stands out. He didn’t begin with auditions, but with storyboarding, camera work, and film theory. As more young actors turn to formal education, Ahaan’s path shows how studying film can help build a strong and lasting career in the industry.

Schooling and studies: How it all started

Ahaan studied at Oberoi International School in Mumbai, known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and focus on creative education. The school’s exposure to performing arts and global subjects helped Ahaan explore storytelling early on. This foundation sparked his growing interest in visual media.


Later, he joined the University of Mumbai to pursue a degree in Cinematic Arts. His course included scriptwriting, editing, directing, and post-production, along with group projects. This academic background gave him a strong understanding of both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking.

Why Ahaan learnt film before making one

According to The Lallantop, Ahaan’s decision to study filmmaking is part of a rising trend. With OTT platforms booming and audiences expecting more from actors, many young talents are now choosing formal media education. Institutes across India are seeing more students enrolling in film courses to understand the full process of filmmaking, not just acting.

What makes Ahaan’s journey special is how he combined study with hands-on work. He worked as an assistant director on Freaky Ali, Rock On 2, and Netflix’s The Railway Men. These roles gave him real-world experience and taught him how a professional set works, from managing scenes to working with large crews.

Saiyaara is just the beginning

Saiyaara, produced by Yash Raj Films and released on 18 July 2025, marks Ahaan’s big screen debut. But for him, it’s not just about being launched, it’s about applying everything he has learnt. With his education in filmmaking and time spent behind the scenes, he brings a deeper understanding to his role as an actor.

Inputs from TOI