Ananya Panday & Kartik Aaryan’s Croatia shoot sparks DP-RK comparisons: Fans say ‘Deepikafication is real!’

The picturesque streets of Croatia are currently echoing with Bollywood beats, thanks to Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, who last shared screen space in Pati Patni Aur Woh (2019), have reunited for this Dharma Productions rom-com directed by Sameer Vidwans. While the film promises a romantic rollercoaster, some behind-the-scenes glimpses have caused a buzz online, for reasons the stars probably didn’t expect.

Earlier this month, Kartik officially introduced Ananya as his leading lady with a cheeky Instagram post, hiding their kiss behind a passport. This flirty reveal had fans swooning. Recently, the actor shared a wrap video for “Apni Ananya ka schedule,” where the duo danced joyfully to Dheeme Dheeme, their signature track from the past. It was a sweet throwback moment, celebrating their chemistry both on and off the screen.

However, things took a different turn when a few unseen pictures from the Croatia shoot surfaced on Reddit. In the snaps, Kartik sports spiky hair and statement sunglasses, while Ananya is dressed in neon pink, with honey-blonde highlights and oversized feather earrings. The sun-kissed, bronzed look of both actors led to an unexpected wave of trolling. Some netizens drew direct comparisons to Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, calling Kartik and Ananya “lite” versions of the iconic ex-couple.

Comments like “Ranbir and Deepika Lite,” “Wannabe Dhoom pair,” and “Saste Ranveer Deepika” began to pour in, with particular attention on Ananya’s makeup and styling. Social media users pointed out that her bronzed look and styling bore a strong resemblance to Deepika’s characters in Pathaan and Fighter, dubbing it the “Deepikafication” of Ananya.

Despite the online noise, fans are still curious and excited about the upcoming film, set for a Valentine’s Day 2026 release. With catchy aesthetics, peppy dance tracks, and sizzling chemistry, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri could well be the next rom-com to rule the big screen.

Only time will tell if the comparisons fade or fuel the hype. But for now, Bollywood’s beloved Gen-Z pair is owning Croatia, feathers, filters, and all.