Aneet Padda shares touching moment, Alzheimer's-stricken grandfather recognizes her in Saiyaara: 'Makkhan di movie'

Aneet Padda’s debut in Saiyaara not only won hearts on the big screen but also carried deep personal significance. The actress’s heartfelt portrayal of a young woman battling early-onset Alzheimer’s resonated profoundly with her own family experience, creating touching real-life moments that fans are now celebrating.

Grandfather recognizes her despite Alzheimer’s

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Aneet Padda revealed that her grandfather is battling Alzheimer’s. She explained that this made her role in Saiyaara even more emotional, as the story’s message—that the mind may forget, but the heart never does—resonated deeply with her personal experience with her grandfather.




Recalling a tender moment, Aneet shared that her grandfather no longer remembers her name or many things, though he still calls her ‘Heeraput’ or ‘Makkhan.’ When her film released, he couldn’t attend the theatre due to being bedridden, but upon seeing videos of the movie, he smiled and recognised it, making the moment very special for her.

Cherished memory with co-star Ahaan Panday

Aneet Padda also shared a cherished memory with co-star Ahaan Panday from the early days of Saiyaara. During her audition phase, Ahaan took her to Mount Mary Church, where they lit a candle. When she asked him his wish, he turned the question back to her—and a week later, he revealed he had wished for her to land the role.



Saiyaara became an overnight sensation, propelling Aneet Padda and Ahaan Panday to fame. Directed by Mohit Suri, the film went on to gross ₹563.5 crore worldwide.

See more: Aneet Padda reveals Ahaan Panday took her to church, prayed for her to land lead role in Saiyaara: 'We'd lit a candle'