Aditya Chopra has significantly influenced the Indian film industry through his multifaceted role as a director, producer, and head of Yash Raj Films (YRF). The filmmaker’s directorial debut, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, became a cultural milestone, redefining romance in Bollywood and running continuously in theatres for over two decades. On the special occasion of the director’s birthday, let us go down memory lane to witness Aditya Chopra’s cinematic triumphs that define Bollywood excellence.
DDLJ To Dhoom: Aditya Chopra’s Fab Five
Here is the list of top Bollywood blockbusters created by Aditya Chopra that captivated hearts and screens.
1. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Aditya Chopra’s directorial debut DDLJ is one of Bollywood’s most iconic romantic films. The plot follows the love story of Raj and Simran, who fall in love during a month-long European trip. However, Simran’s strict father already arranged her marriage to a family friend’s son. Determined to win her family’s approval, Raj travels to India and, through persistence and sincerity, earns their respect and love, culminating in a dramatic and emotional climax.
Shahrukh Khan and Kajol starrer was a massive commercial success and has achieved legendary status in Indian cinema. Moreover, the film played continuously in Mumbai’s Maratha Mandir theatre for over 25 years.
2. Mohabbatein
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Mohabbatein explores the clash between tradition and modernity, highlighting the transformative power of love against a backdrop of rigid authority. The dynamic between Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan is a central pillar of the film, reflecting a generational and ideological conflict that resonates deeply with the audience.
3. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The plot revolves around the journey of Surinder, a simple and unassuming man, who marries the vivacious Taani under tragic circumstances. As the protagonist creates a flamboyant alter ego named Raj to please her wife, Taani begins to enjoy his company and the fun-loving side he brings out in her.
The film marks Anushka Sharma’s debut in the entertainment industry. Moreover, her chemistry with co-actor Shahrukh Khan highlights the transformative power of love as the duo showcases remarkable on-screen romance that drives the emotional core of the film.
4. Veer Zaara
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Veer-Zaara explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of Indo-Pakistani relations. Shahrukh Khan and Preity Zinta starrer emphasizes the power of love to transcend borders and prejudices, highlighting the human connections that surpass political divides. Meanwhile, the soulful music by Madan Mohan and lyrics by Javed Akhtar significantly enhance the emotional depth of the narrative.
The film also features Amitabh Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Hema Malini, Anupam Kher, and Manoj Bajpayee in significant roles.
5. Dhoom
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The action thriller kicked off as one of Bollywood’s most successful franchises. The film stars John Abraham, Abhishek Bachchan, Uday Chopra, Esha Deol, and Rimi Sen. The plot centres around a series of high-speed heists in Mumbai carried out by a gang of motorcyclists. The police, under pressure, assign ACP Jai Dixit, along with a local motorbike racer, to capture the gang.
The film’s success is attributed to its thrilling bike sequences, charismatic performances, especially by John Abraham as the antagonist, and the chemistry between Abhishek Bachchan and Uday Chopra as the cop and his sidekick.
While YRF is renowned for its romantic films, Aditya Chopra has also spearheaded the production of diverse content across genres, including action, drama, comedy, and thrillers. This diversification has contributed to the studio’s continued relevance and success in an ever-evolving industry. Moreover, the filmmaker’s contributions to the entertainment industry are immense, and his vision and creativity have left an indelible mark on Bollywood.