Meet the man who once bailed out Shah Rukh Khan, ended fight with Salman Khan

Ahaan Panday’s debut in Saiyaara has made him an overnight sensation. As the young star continues to capture hearts, curiosity has grown about his family, particularly his father, Aloke “Chikki” Panday, a man whose connections in Bollywood run deep and whose quiet influence has shaped some of its most talked-about moments.

Who is Chikki Panday?

Born in Bombay in 1966, Chikki Panday is the son of renowned surgeon Sharad Panday and younger brother to actor Chunky Panday. Unlike his brother, who found fame in films, Chikki pursued business. He served on the Steel Consumers Council under the Ministry of Steel and was a member of the Telephone Advisory Committees of the Ministry of Communications and IT. Passionate about giving back, he founded the Akshara Foundation of Arts & Learning, a non-profit dedicated to educating underprivileged children.

SRK with Chikki Panday

Bollywood Ties and Close Friendships

Chikki’s ties with Bollywood’s biggest stars are legendary. He shares a long-standing friendship with the Khan family, often seen at their celebrations. His wife, Deanne Panday, a model-turned-lifestyle coach counts Salman Khan, Preity Zinta, and Lara Dutta among her high-profile clientele.

In 1994, when Shah Rukh Khan faced arrest over a dispute with a journalist, it was Chikki and Nana Patekar who helped bail him out. Years later, Chikki played peacemaker during SRK and Salman Khan’s infamous feud, helping them reconcile at Baba Siddiqui’s 2013 iftar party.

A Low-Key Presence Amidst Stardom

Despite his star-studded circle, Chikki maintains a low profile and stays away from social media. His son Ahaan, now Bollywood’s new heartthrob, grew up with close ties to the Khan family, even sharing a strong friendship with Aryan Khan.

Chikki Panday’s story is one of quiet power, strong relationships, and a legacy that extends beyond business and Bollywood.