Shah Rukh Khan, the global cinematic icon and heartthrob of Aditya Chopra directed historic blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), made a surprise visit to the London rehearsal room of Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical. This new stage adaptation of the beloved 1995 Hindi romantic film, in which Khan starred as Raj and Kajol as Simran, is set to make its UK premiere at Manchester Opera House from 29 May to 21 June 2025.
Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical is set in the UK and India and is being directed by Aditya Chopra, the original director of the record-breaking, award-sweeping Hindi-language film. DDLJ is the longest-running title in Indian cinema, playing continuously in Mumbai since its release in 1995. DDLJ is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Jena Pandya (playing Simran) said: “Meeting Shah Rukh Khan and having him in the rehearsal room was such an honour. He was so generous with his time and support for the show. Being able to show him some of the iconic scenes that himself and Kajol originally established was an incredible feeling and will be a long lasting memory for me. I can’t wait to head to Manchester next week and put this story on stage!”
Ashley Day (playing Rog) added: “When he arrived in our rehearsal room and met the full company, it was a moment that quietly landed on all of us—special in a way that didn’t need words. Watching everyone take him in, I could feel how meaningful it was. He greeted us all with such love and genuine excitement about what we’ve been building. I can’t imagine what it must feel like to see a project—beloved by millions—being reimagined as a musical 30 years later. And yet, he kept asking to see more! The words we shared privately are for one Raj to another Rog—but I will say, he was very happy. It was an unbelievable afternoon. I’ll never forget it.”
Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical makes its UK premiere at Manchester Opera House on Thursday 29 May 2025 and runs until Saturday 21 June 2025.
