U.K. Culture Secretary Hails ‘DDLJ' Bollywood Musical as Symbol of Growing India Ties (EXCLUSIVE)
U.K. Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy is pointing to the British premiere of Bollywood musical 'Come Fall in Love — The DDLJ Musical' as evidence of strengthening cultural bonds between Britain and India, following her recent ministerial visit to the subcontinent.
'It was a privilege to represent the U.K. government in India last month where I met with my ministerial counterparts to help strengthen the deep cultural ties between our two great countries,' Nandy said. 'That deepening bond between our nations is evident in one of Bollywood's most beloved stories coming to the UK. I hope that 'Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical' is a great success in Manchester showcasing a talented British cast, including many local performers from the North West.'
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The culture secretary's comments come as Aditya Chopra's English musical comedy adaptation of Bollywood blockbuster 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' ('DDLJ') opened Wednesday night at Manchester Opera House. The production runs through June 21.
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: 'We're proud to welcome the U.K. premiere of 'Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical' to Manchester, a city that celebrates creativity, diversity, and international storytelling. This iconic reimagining of a beloved Indian film is a landmark moment for cultural collaboration between the U.K. and India, and we're honored that Manchester is at the heart of it.'
The musical is based on one of the biggest Bollywood blockbusters in Indian cinema history. 'DDLJ' holds the record as the longest-running title in Indian cinema, playing continuously in Mumbai since its 1995 release. The stage adaptation features 18 new English songs performed by a cast that includes both rising British talent with local links to Manchester and the North West, as well as internationally renowned South Asian artists.
Yash Raj Films CEO Akshaye Widhani said: 'It is always a great honor for us to take India and its stories to the world. We are thrilled to open 'Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical' at the magnificent and historic Manchester Opera House. 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' is not only YRF's treasured IP but it is one of the biggest IPs in the history of Indian cinema, a story that has resonated with people worldwide for over 30 years now.'
Widhani added: 'We look forward to sharing this magical version of 'DDLJ' with those who cherish the original film, as well as introducing the charm of DDLJ to new audiences for the first time.' He also praised Nandy's 'brilliant effort in forging deep cultural ties with India.'
The production stars Jena Pandya ('Bhangra Nation,' 'Mamma Mia') as Simran and Ashley Day ('An American in Paris,' 'Dynasty') as Rog, supported by a company including Irvine Iqbal ('The Father and the Assassin') as Baldev, Kara Lane ('The Addams Family') as Minky, and Millie O'Connell ('Six') as Cookie.
The award-winning creative team includes book and lyrics by Nell Benjamin (Tony winner for 'Mean Girls,' Olivier Award winner for 'Legally Blonde'), music by Bollywood hitmakers Vishal Dadlani and Sheykhar Ravjiani, and choreography by Tony, Olivier and Emmy Award winner Rob Ashford ('Frozen,' 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof'). The production also features scenic design by two-time Tony Award winner Derek McLane ('MJ the Musical,' 'Moulin Rouge!') and Indian dance co-choreography by Shruti Merchant.
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