Mumbai, October 19, 2025 – In a cinematic milestone unlike any other, Mumbai’s legendary Maratha Mandir theatre is celebrating 30 years of uninterrupted daily screenings of the Bollywood classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). The timeless love story starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol has captivated audiences since its release on October 20, 1995, making it India’s longest-running film and an enduring cultural phenomenon.
A Record-Breaking Run in the Heart of Mumbai
Located near Bombay Central Station, Maratha Mandir has been screening DDLJ every day for three decades — a feat unmatched in Indian cinema history. Even after 30 years, fans continue to flock to the theatre for its morning show, with crowds of students, couples, and tourists lining up for tickets priced at just 40 rupees ($0.45).
“I’ve seen it about 30 times and will continue watching it,” said Mohammad Shakir, a 60-year-old fan, while buying another ticket.
Theatre owner Manoj Desai added, “On Sundays, we still see around 500 people. It’s unbelievable that the magic hasn’t faded even after all these years.”
The film’s continued success far surpasses that of Sholay (1975), which ran for five years at another Mumbai cinema. DDLJ’s extraordinary longevity has transformed it from a blockbuster into a living part of India’s cultural fabric.
The Film That Redefined Bollywood Romance
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, directed by Aditya Chopra and produced by Yash Raj Films, revolutionized modern Hindi romance. The story follows Raj (Shah Rukh Khan) and Simran (Kajol) — two young lovers of Indian origin raised abroad — as they navigate the clash between traditional Indian family values and modern ideals of love and freedom.
The iconic climax, in which Simran’s father lets her run toward a moving train to join Raj, continues to draw applause and tears from audiences.
“This is the goosebump moment,” Desai said. “Every screening, people clap, whistle, and cry. The emotion never dies.”
Generational Love and Enduring Relevance
Remarkably, DDLJ continues to resonate with younger generations who weren’t even born when it first hit theaters.
“In our generation, relationships often feel transactional,” said Omkar Saraf, a 23-year-old viewer. “But this film shows love without expectations — watching it on the big screen still gives us goosebumps.”
Film critic Baradwaj Rangan attributes its longevity to the story’s deep cultural roots.
“DDLJ represents a turning point in Indian society — the balance between traditional values and global aspirations,” he explained. “It’s more than a movie now; it’s a cultural monument.”
A Theatre That Became a Shrine
For many fans, Maratha Mandir is not just a cinema but a pilgrimage site for Bollywood lovers. Over the years, it has witnessed countless emotional moments — from proposals to anniversaries and even weddings inspired by the film’s romance. One devoted fan has reportedly attended screenings for over 20 years, while newlywed couples often revisit the theatre as part of their love story.
In 2015, when plans surfaced to discontinue the daily screenings, a massive fan backlash forced the theatre to reverse its decision — a testament to the movie’s undying popularity.
The Legacy of DDLJ
Three decades after its debut, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge continues to symbolize the heart of Bollywood — passionate love, family bonds, and emotional storytelling. The film remains an essential part of Indian pop culture, referenced in music, memes, and even modern films.
“It’s going to be playing forever,” Rangan said. “As long as people believe in love, DDLJ will have an audience.”
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