In a moment that beautifully bridged nostalgia, cinema, and diplomacy, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Yash Raj Films (YRF) Studios in Mumbai, where he was greeted with the soulful strains
of Tujhe Dekha To Ye Jana Sanam—the timeless love anthem from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). The song, which has defined romance for generations, played as part of celebrations marking 30 years since the film’s release.
According to YRF, Starmer appeared visibly moved by the iconic melody as he toured India’s premier film studio, known for producing some of Bollywood’s most memorable cinematic landmarks. The moment served as a symbolic reminder of how Indian cinema continues to transcend borders, evoking shared emotions and memories across cultures.
A Bond Beyond Cinema
The connection between Yash Raj Films and the United Kingdom runs deep. Much of DDLJ—the 1995 classic starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol—was shot in London and other parts of the UK, immortalizing British landscapes as a backdrop for one of India’s most beloved love stories. Over the years, the film’s success has not only boosted tourism from India to the UK but also cemented YRF’s legacy as a cinematic bridge between the two nations.
To further this creative relationship, YRF announced a three-film production pact with the UK, set to begin in 2026. The collaboration will strengthen artistic ties, foster cross-cultural storytelling, and expand the global reach of Indian cinema.
From Screen To Stage
As part of its international expansion, YRF is also producing an English-language stage musical adaptation of DDLJ titled Come Fall In Love: The DDLJ Musical. The production reimagines the iconic love story for global audiences, celebrating inclusivity and the timeless theme of love beyond borders.
Blending “East meets West,” the musical reflects the same emotional universality that made DDLJ an enduring masterpiece. For many, its continued evolution—from screen to stage to real-life moments like Starmer’s visit—underscores the film’s power to unite people through storytelling.
A Celebration Of Legacy
As Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge celebrates three decades of cinematic magic, Keir Starmer’s visit stands as a poignant tribute to its legacy—one that continues to define love, longing, and cross-cultural connection. For YRF, it also marks a reaffirmation of its mission: to keep telling stories that resonate across generations, languages, and continents.