As Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) marks its 30th anniversary on October 20, 2025, actress Kajol, who played the iconic Simran, reflects on the film's enduring legacy and its impact on generations of moviegoers. Released on October 20, 1995, the Aditya Chopra directorial debut starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, wasn't just another romantic drama; it became an emotion, a cultural milestone.
The film tells the story of Raj (Shah Rukh Khan) and Simran (Kajol), two young Indians raised abroad who fall in love during a European trip. Their bond is tested by tradition and parental expectations, but ultimately their love triumphs. DDLJ embraced family values, celebrating youthful passion while respecting the sanctity of family and culture, a balance that resonated deeply with Indian audiences.
Kajol humbly acknowledges the film's influence, stating that families have embraced DDLJ as part of their own love stories. However, she refrains from taking personal credit, saying, "Can't say meri wajah se hua hai". Instead, she suggests that the film's magic lies in its originality, emphasizing that recreating that magic is impossible.
DDLJ brought a refreshing take on love and family values. In an era when Bollywood romances often rebelled against family authority, DDLJ stood out because it embraced it. According to film historian SMM Ausaja, DDLJ struck a chord at the time because there was a saturation of David Dhawan-Govinda comedies. The film was a landmark in terms of romance, music, brilliant dialogues, and iconic scenes, including the train sequence. The on-screen chemistry of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol was top class and no film has been able to recreate this kind of magic in the romantic space.
The film's setting, from European train rides to Punjab's mustard fields, gave it an expansive visual appeal. The timeless music by Jatin-Lalit, with lyrics by Anand Bakshi, and the voices of Lata Mangeshkar, Kumar Sanu, and Udit Narayan, produced songs like "Tujhe Dekha To," "Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna," and "Ruk Ja O Dil Deewane" which became anthems of love and celebration.
The chemistry between Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol transformed Raj and Simran into symbols of ideal love. Their charm, innocence, and authenticity created unforgettable moments, like the final train scene.
DDLJ continues to run at Mumbai's Maratha Mandir theatre, maintaining its status as the longest-running film in Indian history. Ideas of love, freedom, and family have evolved, yet DDLJ endures because its heart remains pure. It speaks of love that is patient, love that seeks acceptance, and love that triumphs through respect and understanding.
Even after 30 years, Pooja Ruparel, who played Simran's sister Chutki, recalls the immense love she receives when people call her Chutki. Couples, young and old, still come to the theatre to watch the romance. On weekdays, about 70 to 100 people watch the movie, and on weekends, the number goes up to 200-300.
