Bollywood has made 2026 a memorable year for on-screen romance, with fresh pairings from ‘Chand Mera Dil’ and ‘Ek Din’ winning audiences over. Continuing this trend, Veer Pahariya and Aafiya Sayed are set to come together for the much-anticipated rom-com ‘Prem Keetanu’. Ahead of the trailer’s release, a newly shared still from the film has already given fans a glimpse of their lively on-screen chemistry.
Aafiya Sayed’s Bollywood debut and family connection
According to Variety India, while Pahariya made his acting debut with ‘Sky Force’ (2025), ‘Prem Keetanu’ marks Aafiya Sayed’s introduction to Hindi cinema. She’s one of the notable newcomers joining the industry this year. Sayed is related to producer Sajid Nadiadwala as his niece, the daughter of his sister, Afeefa Nadiadwala Sayed.
The film is an official remake of a Malayalam hit
This marks a big-screen breakthrough for Sayed, as the film is the official Hindi adaptation of “Premalu,” the 2024 Malayalam rom-com that resonated widely with viewers. Helmed by Girish A D and featuring Naslen and Mamitha Baiju in lead roles, the original became a runaway hit, praised for its breezy humor, authentic portrayal of youthful relationships, and relatable spin on modern love.The Hindi version sets its story in the UP-NCR region, staying faithful to the original’s coming-of-age heart while reimagining its characters within a North Indian context. It brings together strands of young romance, friendship, and the unruly process of growing up.
Release date and cast details
Set for a global theatrical release on October 2, ‘Prem Keetanu’ is directed by Apoorv Singh Karki and penned by Deepak Kingrani. The cast also includes Aparshakti Khurana, Rakesh Bedi and Nikhil Vijay in key supporting roles.
