Bollywood: Bollywood is set to return to Britain with a bang, as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer today announced in Mumbai that India's leading film company, Yash Raj Films (YRF), will shoot three new Bollywood blockbusters in the UK starting from 2026. This significant collaboration is projected to generate over 3,000 jobs and provide a multi-million-pound boost to the British economy.
Historic Announcement at YRF Studios
Prime Minister Starmer made the announcement during his visit to the iconic Yash Raj Studios in Mumbai. He was accompanied by representatives from key British film institutions, including the British. Film Institute (BFI), British Film Commission, Pinewood Studios, Elstree Studios, and Civic Studios. This visit is a crucial part of Starmer's two-day India trade mission, aimed at deepening economic and cultural partnerships between the two nations.
Strengthening Cultural and Economic Ties
During the announcement, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized, "Bollywood is back in Britain — bringing jobs, investment and opportunity. " He highlighted that this partnership underscores the true strength of the India-UK trade agreement, fostering not only economic growth but also strengthening cultural ties. Yash Raj Films, one of India's largest production and distribution houses, is returning to film in the UK after an eight-year hiatus.
YRF's Sentimental Return
Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, expressed his excitement about the return, stating, "The UK has always been special for us, while many iconic films like 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' (DDLJ) were shot there. Our return to the UK on the 30th anniversary of DDLJ is incredibly special for us. " Widhani also mentioned that YRF is currently producing 'Come Fall in Love' (CFIL), an English musical based on DDLJ, in the UK. He praised the UK's film industry for its unparalleled technology, infrastructure, and talent, asserting that this collaboration will deepen the creative partnership between both countries, while further cementing these ties, a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is soon to be signed between the British Film Institute (BFI) and India's National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to promote co-production, talent exchange, and resource sharing.
