‘Saiyaara’, directed by Mohit Suri has been making waves at the box office since its release on Friday, July 18. With a record Rs 20 crore opening day collection, the film starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda is already shaping up to be one of the biggest movies for the year, an impressive feat for Bollywood debutantes. The film’s music, emotional story and good performances by lead stars, is striking a chord with its audiences. The plot, revolving around the subject of love and memory loss, has particularly struck a chord with many. But, alongside the praise, a growing buzz online has netizens questioning if the film is an adaptation of the 2004 Korean hit ‘A Moment to Remember’.
The Comparison
‘A Moment to Remember’, directed by John H. Lee, is a celebrated Korean romantic drama that tells the story of a young couple whose relationship is put to the test when the woman is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The film has become a classic, inspiring several unofficial adaptations around the world.
Saiyaara, also a romantic drama, follows the love story of Krish, an aspiring musician, and Vaani. Their blossoming romance takes a heartbreaking turn when Vaani is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, threatening to upend their future.
Remake or Original?
Despite some similarities, there is no official confirmation that Saiyaara is a remake or adaptation of the Korean drama. Previous reports state that the film was initially a ‘spiritual successor’ to Suri’s 2013 hit ‘Aashiqui 2’, and later changed course.The film’s story was reportedly credited by Sankalp Sadanah and Mohit Suri, with the goal of creating a ‘contemporary’ Indian love story. While the film may feature familiar plotlines, it is reportedly an ‘original’, framed for Indian sensibilities.Whether or not it was inspired by a Korean classic, Saiyaara is clearly resonating with young audiences and fans of the genre.
