Ananya Panday’s Forbes honour draws subtle applause from Walker Blanco amid ongoing romance speculation

Ananya Panday, whose recent film Kesari Chapter 2 continues to receive audience praise, has now found her name in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia 2025 list. The actor shares the spotlight with Ishaan Khatter, as the two made it to the influential lineup that recognises young talents across the continent.

Among the first to react was Ananya's rumoured boyfriend, Walker Blanco. While the two have kept their equation away from public confirmation, Blanco’s quiet endorsement caught attention. He reposted the Forbes announcement on his Instagram Stories, simply adding a clapping hands emoji — a gesture many saw as subtle support.

The duo was recently spotted in Mumbai, fuelling further speculation about their relationship. Accompanied by Ananya’s close friend Suhana Khan, the three were seen out for a lunch outing. Ananya wore a light blue top with white trousers, opting for a laid-back look with loose hair and minimal makeup. Suhana, meanwhile, coordinated with Ananya in a white crop top and denim, layered with a blue shirt. Walker appeared casual in a white T-shirt and khaki pants.

Though the actress has remained tight-lipped, buzz around her personal life has continued. Earlier, she was linked to Aditya Roy Kapur. However, after reports of a split emerged last year, Ananya stated that she would prefer to keep her private life more guarded in the future. Neither she nor Walker has addressed the dating rumours directly, but their public appearances and social media hints have kept fans guessing.

Professionally, Ananya has seen steady growth since her debut in Student of the Year 2 (2019). With a mix of light-hearted roles and serious dramas, she has begun shifting perceptions. In Kesari Chapter 2, based on events post the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, she portrays a more nuanced character.

Outside cinema, she also made headlines as the first Indian face of Chanel. Her anti-cyberbullying initiative, So Positive, continues to engage youth online, reflecting a conscious public image beyond glamour.

With both professional recognition and public interest in her personal life, Ananya Panday remains one of the most closely watched actors of her generation — even if she prefers to stay a step ahead of the narrative.