Mumbai: While Ahaan Panday’s sensational debut in Mohit Suri’s “Saiyaara” has made him an overnight star, much attention is now turning to his father, Aloke ‘Chikki’ Panday, a businessman whose low-profile demeanor belies his profound and long-standing connections within Bollywood’s elite. Chikki Panday’s friendships with industry stalwarts like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan run deep, stretching back decades and even playing a role in mending one of Bollywood’s most famous feuds.
Who is Chikki Panday?
Born in Bombay in 1966, Chikki Panday is the son of eminent surgeon Sharad Panday and the younger brother of actor Chunky Panday. While his brother carved a niche in Hindi films during the late 80s and early 90s, Chikki chose a path in entrepreneurship. His professional affiliations include serving as a member of the Steel Consumers Council under the Ministry of Steel and the Telephone Advisory Committees of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Beyond business, he is also the founder of the Akshara Foundation of Arts & Learning, a non-profit dedicated to providing education to underprivileged children.
A Network of Bollywood Royalty
Despite maintaining a minimal social media presence and generally keeping a low profile, Chikki Panday is extraordinarily well-connected in Bollywood. He shares a close friendship with actor-filmmaker Sohail Khan, Salman Khan’s younger brother, extending his bond to the entire Khan family. The strong ties are evident, as the pre-wedding festivities for Chikki’s daughter, Alanna, were hosted at Sohail’s Mumbai residence. Chikki’s wife, Deanne Panday, a model-turned-lifestyle coach, also boasts a high-profile clientele that includes Salman Khan, Preity Zinta, Lara Dutta, and Bipasha Basu, with Salman often promoting her books and businesses.
The Shah Rukh Khan Connection:
Chikki Panday’s friendship with Shah Rukh Khan dates back to the very beginning of the superstar’s career in the film industry, spanning over three decades. A notable instance of their bond came in 1994 when Shah Rukh was arrested for allegedly threatening a journalist. It was Chikki, along with actor Nana Patekar, who famously bailed him out. This deep connection extends to the next generation, with Chikki’s son Ahaan and Shah Rukh’s son, budding filmmaker Aryan Khan, also sharing a close friendship. A young Chikki Panday can even be seen in archival photos alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan, underscoring their long-standing camaraderie.
Beyond personal support, Chikki Panday played a crucial role in one of Bollywood’s most talked-about reconciliations. In 2013, he was instrumental in bringing Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan to the same table at politician Baba Siddiqui’s annual iftaar party, famously facilitating their reunion after their much-publicized tiff in 2008. The gesture led to the two superstars burying the hatchet, a moment that made national headlines.
Chikki Panday’s quiet influence and extensive network in both the business world and Bollywood’s inner circles paint a picture of a man who, while preferring to stay out of the limelight, is undeniably a significant figure in the industry’s landscape.