Three Decades of DDLJ: Anupam Kher Reflects on the Cult Classic and His Bond with Shah Rukh Khan

Thirty years after Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge first hit the screens, its charm continues to captivate audiences across generations. Actor Anupam Kher, who played the witty and warm father to Shah Rukh Khan’s Raj, says he always sensed the film would be extraordinary.

“Yes, I knew from the beginning that DDLJ was a very special film,” Kher recalls. “It’s not about how many years it ran, but the fact that it changed the grammar and rhythm of Indian cinema. That’s what makes it a cult film.”

A Premiere to Remember

Kher fondly remembers the film’s premiere:
“When the screening ended, there was complete silence for almost a minute, it felt like six hours. Everyone was just absorbing what they had witnessed. And then, the whole theatre erupted in applause. It was a standing ovation that just didn’t end. That’s when we knew this film had touched something deeper.”

Directed by Aditya Chopra, DDLJ broke cinematic conventions, especially the portrayal of a respectful hero waiting for parental approval instead of eloping. “It broke the myth,” says Kher. “Raj waits for the girl’s father’s permission instead of eloping with her. That was revolutionary for its time.”

On-Screen Memories

One moment that stands out for Kher is the iconic line: “Hum toh Hindustan mein fail hue the… tune toh London mein fail hoke dikha diya!” between him and Shah Rukh Khan. “That scene was special. Shah Rukh is very good with improvisation, and we had a lot of fun experimenting. The entire shoot was full of warmth and camaraderie,” he recalls.

Kher’s portrayal of a supportive, modern father became an instant favorite. “People still tell me, ‘I wish my father was like you in DDLJ,’” he laughs. “Before that, audiences had never seen such a father on screen; someone who was a friend, a motivator, and not just an authority figure. DDLJ gave the 90s its coolest father figure.”

Bonds That Last

The actor emphasizes that his relationship with Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol remains unchanged. “Back then, there were no vanity vans, no mobile phones, no managers or security guards. We built relationships with our hearts, not our schedules. We knew each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and emotions. Those connections were real,” he says, adding, “Some relationships are like a pause button, you just press play and continue from where you left off.”

Reflections on His Career

Though Kher began with the iconic role in Saaransh at age 28, he believes his best work comes now. “Whether it’s smaller films or bigger ones, I’m enjoying every moment of it.”

Reflecting on the evolution of the industry, Kher notes: “Every era has its beauty. In those days, we had time to build personal relationships because there were no distractions. Today’s generation has other advantages — information, access, technology. We didn’t have Google or ChatGPT,” he laughs. “I’ve learned more from technology now than I ever did before.”

DDLJ, with its timeless story, unforgettable performances, and heartwarming family values, continues to resonate — a testament to the magic it created three decades ago.