NEW DELHI,India.Oct 07 (Indiatoday) Prime Ministere Keir Starmr announced on Tuesday that Yash Raj Films (YRF) will film three major projects in the United Kingdom starting in early 2026, a move projected to create over 3,500 jobs and significantly enhance the British economy. The announcement was made during Starmer’s visit to Mumbai, where he toured Yash Raj Studios alongside representatives from the British Film Institute (BFI), the British Film Commission, Pinewood Studios, Elstree Studios, and Civic Studios. The visit also marked the 20th anniversary of Yash Raj Studios’ operations, celebrated on October 12, 2025.
Starmer’s two-day trade mission to India focuses on deepening economic and cultural ties between the UK and India, with a particular emphasis on the creative industries. “Bollywood’s return to Britain is a win for jobs, investment, and opportunity. This partnership showcases the UK as a premier destination for global filmmaking and sets the stage for a transformative trade deal with India,” Starmer said.
YRF’s return to the UK ends an eight-year hiatus, following a legacy of iconic films shot in Britain, such as Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), which continues to resonate globally. Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, emphasized the emotional and creative significance of the partnership. “The UK has always been special to YRF. Filming DDLJ here three decades ago was a milestone, and returning in its 30th anniversary year feels like a homecoming. We’re excited to leverage the UK’s world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional talent,” Widhani said.
A highlight of the announcement is YRF’s production of an English-language musical adaptation of DDLJ, titled Come Fall in Love, which will be staged in the UK. The project is expected to blend Bollywood’s storytelling flair with British theatrical expertise, further strengthening creative collaboration.
UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy hailed the partnership as a catalyst for growth. “These Bollywood blockbusters will not only showcase Britain’s creative prowess but also drive economic growth in our dynamic film industry,” she said. The initiative is supported by a new co-production agreement between the BFI and India’s National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), designed to foster joint projects and creative exchanges.
The collaboration builds on a history of successful UK-India co-productions, such as Slumdog Millionaire, which generated approximately £300 million for the UK economy on a £12 million budget. Industry experts anticipate that YRF’s projects will further elevate the UK’s reputation as a global filmmaking hub.
