In a shocking and highly controversial revelation, Saiyaara actor Ahaan Panday has openly denied having any relationship with Bollywood veteran Chunky Panday or rising star Ananya Panday — a statement that has left the industry reeling and fans utterly stunned.

The revelation came during a promotional event for his latest film, where the actor was being interviewed about nepotism and his journey into acting. When a reporter casually referenced his “close ties” to the Panday clan, expecting a typical acknowledgment, Ahaan stunned the entire room with just one cold, cutting sentence:

“I’ve built my career alone. I owe nothing to that family.”

Gasps echoed across the press hall. Social media exploded within minutes. What followed was an avalanche of theories, backlash, support, and speculation that’s now dominating Bollywood gossip columns.

Denial That Echoed Loudly

For years, it had been commonly assumed — even taken for granted — that Ahaan Panday, often seen at family events with the likes of Ananya Panday and Chunky Panday, was closely related to them. After all, he shares the same last name, appeared on red carpets with the family, and was even rumored to be mentored by them.

But now, Ahaan wants the world to believe that those connections were either overstated or irrelevant to his journey.

“I’ve faced the same struggles as any outsider. My work speaks for itself,” he said firmly.
“Yes, I know them, but that doesn’t define me. I am not here because of anyone’s name.”

The statement was as much a bombshell as it was a declaration of independence — but it also raised more questions than answers.

Why Deny the Association?

Some industry insiders believe this could be a calculated move — a way for Ahaan to separate himself from the ever-growing backlash against Bollywood’s nepotism culture.

In recent years, the topic has become a hot-button issue, with many viewers and critics demanding fresh talent without industry backing. By distancing himself from the Panday name, Ahaan may be trying to rebrand as a true outsider — someone who climbed the ladder without privilege.

But others aren’t buying it.

“He was introduced to the industry at the same parties, with the same connections,” said one PR agent.
“You can’t suddenly erase that just because it’s convenient now.”

https://youtu.be/4Yjv4eaoJRM

Family Fallout?

The bigger question now looming is: how do Ananya and Chunky Panday feel about this?

So far, neither has issued a statement. But sources close to the family suggest that they were “deeply hurt” by the public disownment.

“They always treated Ahaan like family,” a source claimed.
“This came out of nowhere. It feels like a betrayal — like he’s rewriting history just to get attention.”

Some fans believe there may be deeper family tensions at play — hidden rifts, old resentments, or even rivalry.

“There’s definitely something we don’t know,” one user tweeted.
“You don’t burn bridges that visibly unless there’s some real drama behind closed doors.”

Public Reaction: A Mixed Storm

Online, fans are fiercely divided.

Some are applauding Ahaan’s bold stance, praising him for “breaking free” and “choosing his own path.”

“He’s right. Let the work speak. Enough with family labels,” one fan posted.

But others are outraged.

“Disrespecting the people who helped you rise? That’s low,” another wrote.

Some are even calling it a publicity stunt ahead of Saiyaara’s release — a calculated attempt to create buzz through controversy.

What’s Next for Ahaan Panday?

Whether it was a genuine statement of independence or a tactical move to grab headlines, one thing is certain: Ahaan Panday is now under the spotlight like never before.

His upcoming film Saiyaara is already seeing a spike in interest — but so is the scrutiny on his every word, every move, and every potential slip-up.

Will this bold disassociation pay off? Or will it haunt him as he climbs higher in Bollywood’s unforgiving terrain?

Only time will tell.

But for now, the message is loud and clear:

Ahaan Panday doesn’t want to be anyone’s shadow. Not even family’s.

And Bollywood… is listening. 🔥

Ahaan Panday DENIES connection with uncle Chunky Panday? ‘It is funny that my surname…’

Ahaan Panday’s Bollywood debut Saiyaara has become one of the highest grossing movies of 2025. The star and his family is happy. But amid the success celebrations, an old comment by Ahaan Panday has drawn a lot of attention.

The stupendous success of Saiyaara has put Ahaan Panday on the map. His debut movie has broken several records at the box office. The movie that released on July 18 has now crossed the mark of Rs 150 crore within just 6 days. Ahaan’s acting chops have become a hot topic of discussion and he is touted to be the nest superstar of Bollywood. For the unversed, Ahaan Panday is Chunky Panday’s nephew and cousin of Ananya Panday. The Pandays are showcasing full support to Ahaan Panday as he has marked his journey in Bollywood. But did you know, Ahaan Panday once denied any connection with Chunky Panday?

Did Ahaan Panday say he is not related to Chunky Panday?
As per a report in entertainment news portal SpotboyE, Ahaan Panday in 2017 had interacted with fans through social media and had mentioned about his connection with Chunky Panday. Surprisingly, he had denied being related to his uncle. As per the report, when Ahaan Panday was asked about Chunky Panday, he replied, “It’s funny that my surname is Panday, but I’m nowhere connected to him. My dad is Aloke Sharad Panday, and that’s the only Panday connection I have. I have established myself in the B-town through my popularity.” This comment had raised eyebrows. But all of this set aside, the Pandays are proving to be a family with strong values and family connections. Ananya Panday and all others of Panday family are supporting Ahaan Panday’s debut with all their heart.

Ahaan Panday recalls his childhood living in joint family
Ahaan Panday recently appeared on sister Alanna Panday’s YouTube channel. In a video, during the interaction, Ahaan recalled his childhood and the time when everyone lived under the same roof. He recalled how he was the ‘least pampered’ of all. He was also asked when he would have chosen to have his own room or to grow up surrounded by love. To this, the actor said, “It was great. I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He hilarious also recalled a time when sisters Ananya Panday, Alanna Panday left him injured by hitting him with dough.