The lasting impact of ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ on romantic cinema

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) brought Indian diaspora romance to the forefront. Set across Europe and Punjab, it blended Western charm with desi values, striking a universal chord. The film resonated with global audiences, becoming a cultural bridge for Indian cinema abroad.

Raj and Simran’s love story balanced youthful rebellion with deep-rooted family values. DDLJ proved that modern romance didn’t have to abandon tradition, inspiring countless films to adopt a similar approach that appealed to both the young and the conservative.

DDLJ became the longest-running film in Indian cinema history, playing continuously in Mumbai’s Maratha Mandir for over two decades. Its box office success changed expectations for romantic dramas and set new commercial benchmarks for Bollywood storytelling.

This film catapulted Shah Rukh Khan to the title of Bollywood’s king of romance. His portrayal of Raj became iconic, influencing how romantic heroes were written and performed for decades to come, combining charm, mischief, and emotional maturity.

With DDLJ, Yash Raj Films established a glossy, emotionally rich, music-heavy romantic format that became its trademark. The film’s lush visuals, memorable songs, and family-friendly drama laid the foundation for a new Bollywood formula that shaped the 2000s and beyond.