Mumbai, July 29, 2025 — Actor Tanishaa Mukerji has strongly pushed back against claims that the emotional reactions of audiences watching Saiyaara were staged by the filmmakers. Responding to a viral podcast that alleged viewers were paid to cry in theatres, Tanishaa called the comments baseless and labeled them as “Bollywood bashing.”
Directed by Mohit Suri and backed by Yash Raj Films, Saiyaara has become one of 2025’s biggest blockbusters. The romantic musical, starring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, has resonated particularly with Gen-Z audiences. In recent weeks, social media has been flooded with videos showing viewers visibly emotional, crying, and cheering during screenings.
The Controversy: Were Reactions Paid For?
The debate began after a podcast episode by The Asymmetric Crew, featuring creator The Barber Shop with Shantanu, alleged that the film’s marketing involved paying young people ₹500 each to cry in theatres as part of a promotional gimmick.
“The producers of this ridiculous Saiyaara movie are paying people to cry and perform in theatres… the whole thing feels staged,” the speaker claimed.
Tanishaa’s Strong Response
Tanishaa Mukerji, sister of actor Kajol and a Bollywood insider, didn’t mince words in her reply. Commenting on the viral clip, she wrote:
“Completely disagree. Times are changing and these people are stuck in the past. Love and appreciate the new. And honestly, what rubbish is this man saying? Does he know anything for a fact? He is using the phenomenon of Saiyaara to get views by talking negatively.”
She went on to add that such criticisms often stem from a disconnect between generations.
“Just because he cannot relate doesn’t mean the younger generation doesn’t either. Every generation is different. This is India. We react. Go watch the film, see how the audiences are moved. Then talk. This is just Bollywood bashing!”
Box Office Success
Despite the backlash, Saiyaara continues to thrive at the box office. Released on July 18, the film opened to impressive advance bookings worth ₹9.39 crore and has since crossed the ₹250 crore mark in India. Produced by Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, the movie has become a cultural moment — drawing massive crowds and passionate reactions.
Whether the tears are real or not, Saiyaara has certainly struck a chord with its audience — and the conversation around it shows no signs of slowing down.
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