• Source:JND

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) is one of the most iconic Bollywood romances, where Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol brought to life the simple story not of love at first sight, but how love makes its presence felt. Have you ever imagined how the evergreen characters of Raj and Simran would look in today's era if reimagined with new actors? What if the film was set in modern times, contemporary values, but still held on to the same essence and the soul of love, Indian family drama and battle between tradition and personal happiness. Let's imagine how a DDLJ reboot could unfold for a modern audience surrounded by trends.

DDLJ 2: Who Would Play Shah Rukh Khan And Kajol In Gen Z Version?

Rohit Saraf As Raj Malhotra (SRK)

Rohit has won everyone's hearts with his chocolate boy-next-door charm. He rose to fame with the Netflix series Mismatched and carved a niche for himself with performances in films like Dear Zindagi, Ludo, and The Sky Is Pink in the industry. He recently appeared in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. The actor has a charming, modern and relatable take on love. With his natural innocence, Rohit can perfectly embody a Gen Z Raj. With his wit, emotional depth and modern perspective on SRK's iconic character.

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Rohit Saraf As Raj Malhotra (Image: X/@FilmHistoryPic)

Aneet Padda As Simran (Kajol)

Aneet Padda has the ability to speak with her expressions; she touches emotions, even with a blank face. She began her career with Salaam Venky, but received wide recognition for her performance in Mohit Suri's romantic drama Saiyaara, where she became an overnight National crush. Much like Kajol, Aneet brings that emotional depth with natural acting charm in her performance. Her expressive eyes and strong screen presence make her an ideal modern era Simran.

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Aneet Padda As Simran In DDLJ 2 (Image: X)

Ashutosh Rana As Bauji (Chaudhary Baldev Singh)

Simran's father, Baldev Singh, originally played by legendary Amrish Puri, was a key character of DDLJ, stern, deeply rooted in culture and fiercely protective. Ashutosh Rana is known for his portrayal of negative roles and commanding on-screen presence. He portrayed the strict father of Alia Bhatt in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhanya, where he was similar to the late actor.

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Ashutosh Rana As Bauji, played by late Amrish Puri (Image: X)

Sheeba Chaddha as Lajjo (Simran's mother)

Who can be a better name than Sheeba Chaddha for the role of Lajjo? With decades of experience across films, TV and web series, she has nailed the portrayals of a mother. She can bring warmth, wisdom and a silent yet strong strength as Simran's mother in DDLJ 2.0.

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Sheeba Chaddha in role of Lajjo, originally played by actress Farida Jalal (Image: X/@lovedropx)

Boman Irani as Raj's Dad Dharamvir Malhotra

It goes without saying that Boman Irani can adapt to any role, and one of the suitable options to play Raj's supportive and quirky Pops (father), originally portrayed by Anupam Kher.

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Boman Irani as Raj's Dad (Image: X/@FilmHistoryPic)

Siddhant Chaturvedi As Kuljeet (Simran's Fiance)

Siddhant has made his mark with some phenomenal performances in supporting roles like MC Sher in Gully Boy and Prashant Kanaujia in Inside Edge. While some of his films with him as a lead didn't make it big at the box office, his performances surely left an impact. Siddhant will be a great fit in the role of Kuljeet, originally played by Parmeet Sethi in the movie.

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Siddhant Chaturvedi in role of Kuljeet, played by Parmeet Sethi (Image: X)

How Would DDLJ Have Ended If Made In The Modern Era?

Instead of a Eurotrip, Raj and Simran meet during a digital creators' retreat in Manali. What started as a roasting ended with a heart-to-heart and vibing with each other.

In this modern narrative, the iconic climax train scene gets a twist. Instead of Simran's father letting her go with Raj, it's Simran who is leaving for the UK to start her career without sabotaging her arranged marriage and reclaiming her freedom. Raj comes, not to fight with her father but to support her. He proves his maturity by helping her father modernise the family business and make it go viral through his digital platforms.