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Debutant Ahaan Panday has emerged as the nation’s newest heartthrob after his blockbuster debut Saiyaara, which stormed the box office. His charming screen presence, humble interactions with fans, and a rapid rise to over a million Instagram followers have cemented him as the new national crush. Loved by audiences and praised by Bollywood stars alike, Ahaan is already being hailed as the industry’s brightest new face. But did you know that 'Ahaan' is not his 'real Hindu name'? In fact, both his and his sister Alanna’s Hindu names have a direct Bollywood connection!
Not Really 'Ahaan'!
Most fans assume Ahaan Panday is the actor’s real name, especially since his father Aloke 'Chikki' Panday and uncle Chunky Panday are widely known by their nicknames. However, in a recent interview, the Saiyaara star revealed that both he and his sister Alanna actually have traditional Hindu names, each with a special link to Yash Raj Films, the very studio that launched him.
The Story Behind His 'Real' Name
Ahaan, son of businessman Aloke 'Chikki' Panday and fitness expert-author Deanne Panday, was given two names due to his mixed-faith parentage, his father is Hindu and his mother is Christian.
In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, Ahaan shared why his YRF launch felt like destiny, “I think it goes back to my grandmother; she was the person closest to me whom I lost. Yash Raj Films was the cinema I grew up with, the cinema my grandmother dreamed I would be a part of. She always called me Raj. My sister’s Hindu name is 'Chandni', after the film 'Chandni', and mine is 'Yash'. We’ve always been big filmy Yash Raj (films) lovers.”
Ahaan Was Destined for a YRF Debut!
Nephew of Chunky Panday and cousin of Ananya Panday, Ahaan was seen as a Bollywood hero in the making right from his teens. Though he had multiple offers, he chose to wait for filmmaker Aditya Chopra, who promised to launch him under the YRF banner. Calling it his 'destiny', Ahaan described his debut as not just the fulfilment of a childhood dream but also a heartfelt tribute to his late grandmother, who always wished to see him shine as an actor.
