Kajol, the iconic Bollywood actress, has recently addressed the persistent rumors surrounding potential sequels to her classic films, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (KKHH). As she prepares for the release of her upcoming horror film Maa, Kajol has made it clear that some love stories are best left untouched, much to the dismay of fans who have long yearned for a continuation of these beloved tales.
In a candid interview with Pinkvilla, Kajol was directly asked about the possibility of DDLJ 2, a question that has followed her for years. While she acknowledged the theoretical appeal of revisiting the iconic love story of Raj and Simran, she humorously confessed that she simply cannot envision a sequel. Kajol explained that every film possesses its own unique magic, and DDLJ is no exception. She playfully suggested that audiences likely wouldn't want to see the mundane realities of Raj and Simran's life after their fairytale ending, such as "whether they fought over diapers or not."
Kajol emphasized the brilliance of DDLJ's ending, with Simran boarding the train, leaving the rest to the audience's imagination. She believes that preserving this "happily ever after" without delving into the everyday struggles of married life is crucial to maintaining the film's enchantment.
Addressing the possibility of a Kuch Kuch Hota Hai sequel, Kajol reflected on how the film belonged to a different era, a time when audiences deeply believed in eternal love. She expressed that recreating such a story in today's world, with its evolving belief systems, would be incredibly challenging. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai resonated so well because it was set in a world where people wholeheartedly embraced the idea of once-in-a-lifetime love. Kajol suggested that with the current landscape of relationships, it would be difficult to capture the same emotional depth and conviction.
Kajol's perspective aligns with a growing sentiment among some actors and filmmakers that certain classic films are best left as standalone masterpieces. The risk of diminishing the original's impact with a poorly executed sequel is a significant concern. The actress's comments also reflect her careful approach to her career, prioritizing quality and meaningful roles over simply capitalizing on past successes.
While Kajol has shut down the possibility of DDLJ and KKHH sequels, she remains open to exploring new and mature love stories with her longtime co-star Shah Rukh Khan. She acknowledged that she hasn't worked as much as many of her peers, stating that she chooses to have a slower life. Kajol's filmography spans various genres, from classics like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham to more experimental roles. Her latest venture, Maa, directed by Vishal Furia, marks her first foray into the horror genre, showcasing her willingness to take on diverse and challenging projects. She is also set to star in Maharagni – Queen of Queens, reuniting with Prabhu Deva after 27 years.
Kajol's stance on sequels underscores her respect for the art of storytelling and her understanding of what makes certain films so special. While fans may be disappointed that Raj and Simran's and Rahul and Anjali's stories won't be continuing on screen, Kajol's reasoning offers a thoughtful perspective on preserving cinematic magic.