For most young stars, buying a first house is about independence. For Ananya Panday, it was also about family. The actor, who bought her own home in Mumbai in 2023, asked Gauri Khan – whom she has known
since childhood – to design it. For Ananya, the choice was more emotional than professional.
Ananya Panday on choosing Gauri Khan
In a chat with NIF Global, Ananya explained the bond behind her decision. “Honestly, for me, it was a sentimental decision to have Gauri Khan do my house because I have grown up around her and she has almost been a second mother to me. She knew me, really me. She was like, if I was doing this for Suhana [Khan, her daughter], then I would have done something very similar.”
Respect and freedom
The actor also appreciated how Gauri let her take the lead. “What I liked about Gauri ma’am was that even though she had known me since I was a kid, she still took me seriously. She saw that this is my first house and I would want to do it in a way… so she never put too many of her opinions or decisions… she left it open to me. Everything was like a question or conversation… ‘Is this something you would like?’ ‘Do you want to try this?’”
Calling interior design a deeply personal process, Ananya also said that Gauri prioritised her comfort and individuality.
Ananya Panday house
When the project was finished, Ananya posted her gratitude online. “My first home… my dream home (red heart emoji)… thank you @gaurikhan… no one could have understood exactly what I wanted better than you… and made it so so so special for me… you’re the best, love you!!!”
Ananya Panday And Suhana Khan
Ananya Panday has grown up alongside Shah Rukh Khan’s kids, Suhana and Aryan, and shares a bond that goes beyond just friendship. She often calls Suhana her “sister” and the two are regularly spotted together at parties, outings, and even family get-togethers. Ananya once admitted she had a childhood crush on Aryan but has always described SRK as a father figure who made her feel at home. Over the years, their connection has remained strong, making them one of Bollywood’s most loved star-kid circles.
On the work front
Ananya will next be seen with Kartik Aaryan in Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri, directed by Sameer Vidwans and backed by Dharma Productions. The film is set to release on 13 February 2026.
