Saiyaraa's Shaan R Grover talks about playing main antagonist in the romantic film: Only a fool would say no to YRF- Exclusive

Q: First things first, congratulations on Saiyaara. It’s been getting so much love and so many positive reviews. How do you feel?

Shaan: Yes, I’m feeling great. I’m feeling fantastic. Like anybody would, being a small yet significant part of something on such a big level. I’m really grateful for all the love that’s been pouring in over the past two days. My friends have loved it. My family has loved it. I loved it when I saw it at the screening back at YRF. I knew from the moment I was selected that this was something special we were cooking. I mean, it’s YRF, it’s Mohit Suri sir, it’s Sanuman, it’s Ahaan, it’s Aneet — just so many names. I’m just really happy to be a small part of it and I hope it does wonders for everybody.

Q: People are actually calling it Aashiqui 3 instead of Saiyaara. How do you react to that?

Shaan: I mean, it’s only because of Mohit Suri sir. He’s a fantastic director — one of the best we have. He’s known for that dark, emotional rollercoaster of romance, and of course, great music. That’s what creates this connection with the audience. The nostalgia from his earlier films, Aashiqui, Malang — it all adds up. So yes, maybe it feels like an Aashiqui 3, but it’s Saiyaara. Of course, Mohit sir would want it known as Saiyaara, and rightly so. But it's a huge compliment to be associated with such legendary storytelling.

Q: What made you say yes to the role?

Shaan: Only a fool would say no to YRF! Playing a bad boy or antagonist in a YRF film — that’s a dream come true. I had my own doubts, of course. It took some time to get into the psyche of the character — someone who’s so unlike me. Catching the mannerisms, the body language — that’s easy. But understanding why someone would behave like that? That was hard. I said yes not for the screen time or “meatiness” of the role, but because I knew it would be a special film. Also, I owe it to Shanoo Sharma ma’am. She’s like my mentor. I’ve been associated with her since 2016. I gave three rounds of auditions for this. Like I said, only a fool would say no.

Q: How was it working with Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda?

Shaan: Fantastic. I’ve known Ahaan since 2016. We trained under Shanoo ma’am and bonded early on. I remember him once saying, “It’ll be so much fun when we do a film together someday.” And now, here we are! As for Aneet, she’s so grounded and talented. We had several workshops to build our chemistry, especially because our characters have a five-year backstory. She’s goofy, dramatic, fun — and an amazing actor.

Q: Was playing a darker role creatively liberating or challenging for you?

Shaan: It was definitely challenging. Reading the part was easy — I understood the character. But accepting that someone could really be that cruel? That was hard for me. I kept asking myself, “How could someone do this?” But the reaction from audiences has been so validating. A friend even told me her ex was exactly like my character. So yes, it’s uncomfortable, but very real — and I’m glad I got to portray that. I’ve always liked playing grey-shaded roles. My first film Nobleman had one too. There’s more to perform in such parts, more complexity, and that excites the theatre actor in me.

Q: Do you prefer negative roles over positive ones?

Shaan: I wouldn’t say I prefer one over the other — I let life decide. I’m just overwhelmed by the response. I didn’t expect this much love. My phone’s been flooded with messages — even people who hadn’t spoken to me in years are calling! So, no preferences, but yes — I really want to do more films, whether it’s positive or negative roles.

Q: What was your most unforgettable moment on set?

Shaan: There’s one scene — a close-up where I see Ahan’s character with my ex. I had to look normal but also show discomfort, insecurity, and threat. When the shot ended, Mohit sir shouted, “You’re a very good actor!” I was stunned. And then Ahan came running, asking, “What did you do? I couldn’t see it, but everyone’s talking about it!” Even the junior artists came up to me, saying I inspired them to chase their dreams harder. That moment meant the world to me.

Q: Tell us about your upcoming series Jabalpur — a supernatural love story. How did you prepare?

Shaan: You won’t believe it — I got selected a day before flying to Kutch for a 12-day intense shoot! I didn’t have any rehearsals or prep time. My theatre background really helped me. The role was as intense — maybe even more — than Saiyaara. It took a lot of back-and-forth, but my director guided me brilliantly. He’s a disciple of one of the country’s greatest filmmakers. Also, like Saiyaara, Jabalpur is music-driven. I’ve been lucky — the music in both is soul-touching.

Q: Which actors or directors inspire you the most?

Shaan: I learn from everyone — actors, directors, producers. But to name a few:
Directors — Karan Johar (my dream is to work with him), Vishal Bhardwaj, and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra.
Actors — Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh. From the newer lot, Vishal Jethwa, Ahan (again!), Shanaya Kapoor, Rasha Thadani, Anahita — so many.