For nearly three decades, India’s most iconic love story has been playing at Mumbai’s Maratha Mandir cinema for just $1 a ticket. “Diwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (DDLJ), released in 1995, tells the tale of two young Indians raised in London who fall for each other during a trip across Europe and face cultural differences when they return to India.
The film’s director, Aditya Chopra, aimed to capture his generation’s aspirations and global outlook. DDLJ became a cultural phenomenon, catapulting Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol to cinema royalty. Its impact still resonates with young Indians today, who see themselves in the story of two people fighting for love against family expectations.
To understand DDLJ’s enduring success, critics point to its cultural relevance and portrayal of Indian culture in a Western context. The film launched the on-screen pairing of Khan and Kajol, cementing their position as Bollywood’s golden couple. Despite some dated moments, the movie remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
As DDLJ celebrates 30 years since its release, it serves as a reminder of India’s cultural awakening in the mid-1990s. The film’s anniversary screenings are filled with nostalgic fans who see themselves in the story and cherish the romance on screen. With new generations discovering its timeless charm, DDLJ remains an integral part of Indian cinema history.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/10/20/style/ddlj-bollywood-30-years-anniversary-intl-hnk-dst