Shah Rukh Khan-starrer ‘Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge’ completed an unbroken stint of 14 years at Maratha Mandir. DNA asks Mumbaikars what makes the movie tick even today.
Expert view
Flick was ahead of its time
There are various factors which concurrently worked for this beautiful film. Firstly, the movie was way ahead of its time. The plot where a boy is hoping to win the heart of his future in-laws and marry his beloved, when she is already engaged to someone, was a plus point. Youngsters could easily identify with characters of Raj and Simran.
After 14 years, the film is still running as the basic theme is still fresh. Secondly, at the time of its release,Shah Rukh was not a very big star, sopeople could easily connect with him. People still go to watch the film because SRK has a huge fan following now.
Thirdly, Shah Rukh’s histrionics and Kajol’s acting prowess won fans. The film’s pace and soothing locales of Europe and Punjab were fantastic. The most important factor was theticket’s price. Manoj Desai, owner of Maratha Mandir is intelligent enough to understand the pulse of the audience. He has kept the price of the ticket in the affordable range of Rs12-20.
—Jyothi Venkatesh, film journalist
For all age groups
It is a beautiful love story which is high on the emotional quotient. Love remains the same and emotions never change. Therefore, this film ticks with every age group. It is a realistic film, which has a melodious musical score and strong characters. Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol will be remembered for generations to come as Raj and Simran. It also has an excellent mix of West and East - from London to Punjab.
—Taran Adarsh, film trade analyst
It’s a complete entertainment package
I have lost count of how many times, I have watched this movie. It has the best songs and a wholesome mix of comedy, action and romance. It has legendary actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Ambarish Puri and Kajol. I like the songs; whereas the title track is the icing on the cake. The movie makes you want to fall in love with the locations and actors as well. It will continue to remain an all-time favourite with people across generations. I don’t think the Yash Raj banner has come up with such a blockbuster.
—Khushnima Bhot
Best Indian movie ever, SRK rocks
It’s obvious that the reason for the movie becoming a major hit is Shah Rukh Khan. I can relate to Kajol’s character in the film. She depicts a typical Indian girl, who wants to opt for a love marriage, but with the permission of her parents. The scene where both of them eventually meet in the fields in Punjab is one of my favourite scenes. Many SRK movies have been my favourites, but DDLJ tops the list. I have seen the movie many times, since it grows on you every time you watch it. It’s the best Indian movie ever made and SRK completely rocks.
—Pooja Hingorani
Haven’t seen DDLJ even once, SRK not my fav
I guess the reason for the movie still running to packed houses is that the theatre offers privacy. There is little crowd and the dark theatre allows couples to spend time with each other. The ticket is priced at an affordable sum of Rs15. I don’t know why it surprises people but I haven’t watched the movie even once. I prefer watching Hollywood films.There are few talented actors in Bollywood and one of them is Amitabh Bacchan.
—Daryl Samuel
Cult classic, SRK makes it watchable
I think that Hindi cinema’s screen idol Shah Rukh Khan makes the movie a big hit. His acting, especially the romantic scenes, goofish comedy and the way he carries himself in the movie is just amazing. He looks so cute and adorable in the film. I love the character of Kajol (Simran) in the movie. I wish I could be in her place. My favourite scene in the movie is when Shah Rukh Khan comes to Kajol’s place in Punjab with the cow bell. I don’t mind watching the movie again, it’s a cult classic.
—Amrita Mondal
The movie revolutionised film industry
I have watched DDLJ seven times in the theatre and have lost count of the occasions, when I have watched it on DVD. I feel close to the film. The film depicts how the next generation perceives marriage and love. Any boy who loves a girl or vice-versa are still in some way conservative and don’t want to hurt or disappoint the parents. The script of this film revolutionised and set a benchmark in the Hindi film industry. It was a well balanced movie which depicted the young lovers as well as the parents concerns well. The acting by the lead stars SRK and Kajol is commendable.
—Akshat Jain
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