Ahaan Panday to Play Gangster in YRF–Ali Abbas Zafar’s Next; Actor Undergoes Action Training

Ahaan Panday is set to take a decisive turn in his early career, moving away from his debut image to headline a darker, action-driven film backed by Yash Raj Films. The actor, who was last seen in the musical romance Saiyaara, will next be seen playing a gangster in a film directed by Ali Abbas Zafar.

The project is being described as an action-romance, with Ahaan’s character positioned at the centre of a conflict driven by love and violence. The role marks a clear departure from his earlier portrayal of a troubled musician, indicating a conscious shift towards more intense and physically demanding roles.

According to a report by Variety, the actor has undergone extensive preparation for the part, including hand-to-hand combat and weapons training, in order to convincingly portray the raw and aggressive nature of the character.

The film also brings together a mix of established and emerging actors. Jimmy Shergill has joined the cast in a pivotal role, marking his return to Yash Raj Films after over two decades since Mohabbatein (2000). The ensemble further includes Sharvari as the female lead, Aaishvary Thackeray as the antagonist, and Bobby Deol in a key role, though details about some of the characters remain undisclosed.

While plot specifics have not been revealed, the film is expected to follow the large-scale, stylised action format often associated with Zafar’s work. Production commenced in Mumbai earlier this month and is scheduled to continue there before shifting to London for the next leg. The makers are reportedly aiming to complete filming by July, with a theatrical release planned for early 2027.

Ahaan Panday’s debut with Saiyaara had positioned him as a promising new face, particularly among younger audiences. With this upcoming film, the actor appears to be exploring a more varied space, both in terms of genre and screen persona, as he builds his footing in the industry.