Yahoo Lifestyle ‘DDLJ’ at 30: Britain’s Railway Joins India’s Yash Raj Films for Musical Celebration (EXCLUSIVE)
Britain’s railway system and Bollywood titan Yash Raj Films (YRF) are teaming up for a cultural celebration marking two major milestones in 2025: the railway’s 200th anniversary and the 30th year of blockbuster “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (DDLJ).
The collaboration, announced as part of Valentine’s Day festivities recognizing the romance of rail travel, centers on “Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical,” YRF’s stage adaptation premiering at Manchester Opera House on May 29. The production reimagines the 1995 blockbuster, which famously captured romantic scenes at London’s King’s Cross Railway Station featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol.
More from Variety
Original “DDLJ” director Aditya Chopra helms this English-language musical about Simran, a British Indian woman whose arranged marriage plans in India become complicated when she falls for a British man named Roger. The show brings together an international creative team with 18 original English songs by Indian composers Vishal Dadlani and Sheykhar Ravjiani, while “Mean Girls” veteran Nell Benjamin provides book and lyrics.
The production assembles Broadway talent including “Frozen” choreographer Rob Ashford, “Moulin Rouge!” scenic designer Derek McLane, and Indian dance specialist Shruti Merchant, with casting by David Grindrod.
Railway 200 executive director Suzanne Donnelly said: “We’re very pleased to partner with Yash Raj Films and celebrate the enduring romance of rail and power of connection across the world. The railway has long inspired film-makers and helped to shape our cultural landscape.”
YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani added: “One of the most iconic scenes of ‘DDLJ’ was filmed at King’s Cross Railway Station, which we are showcasing in ‘Come Fall In Love.’ So, this is the perfect moment for us to partner with Railway 200. Together, we want to spread the message of how unifying love can be and how celebrating diversity and inclusivity is the need of the hour.”
The musical plays through June 21, with activities planned at Manchester and London railway stations. Meanwhile, the original “DDLJ” maintains its position as the longest-running film in Indian cinema, playing continuously in Mumbai since its 1995 release.
Best of Variety
Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
