Yash Chopra Movies: 7 Superhits That Taught Shah Rukh Khan the Art of Romance

Today marks the 93rd birth anniversary of legendary Bollywood filmmaker Yash Chopra, the man who redefined romance in Indian cinema. Founder of Yash Raj Films, Chopra was known for creating some of the most iconic love stories that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Shah Rukh Khan, one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, has often credited Yash Chopra for teaching him how to romance on screen.

Born on September 27, 1932, in Amritsar, British India (now Pakistan), Yash Chopra grew up in a family deeply connected to cinema. His elder brother, B.R. Chopra, was a well-known filmmaker who created television classics like Mahabharata. Yash Chopra began his directorial journey with Dhool Ke Phool (1959) and went on to become synonymous with romance in Bollywood.

Here are seven of Yash Chopra’s most iconic films, available for streaming on OTT platforms like Amazon Prime Video:

1. Waqt (1965)

Released in 1965, Waqt was the first Bollywood film to feature a multi-star cast. Directed by Yash Chopra and produced by B.R. Chopra, the film starred Raaj Kumar, Sunil Dutt, Shashi Kapoor, Balraj Sahni, Sadhana, and Sharmila Tagore. The story revolved around family separation and reunion, a theme that resonated with audiences. Songs like Ae Meri Joharjabi became evergreen hits.

2. Deewar (1975)

While popularly associated with Salim-Javed’s writing, Deewar was also shaped by Yash Chopra’s direction. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Neetu Singh, and Parveen Babi, the film became a blockbuster, remembered for its intense performances and memorable dialogues. The story of sibling rivalry and moral dilemmas continues to influence Bollywood narratives.

3. Chandni (1989)

Chandni is often regarded as a defining romantic film of the 1980s. Featuring Sridevi, Rishi Kapoor, and Vinod Khanna, the movie was a visual and musical treat. Yash Chopra’s signature romantic style shone through its grand visuals and melodious songs, which remain popular even today. Supporting actors included Anupam Kher, Waheeda Rehman, and Sushma Seth.

4. Darr (1993)

In 1993, Chopra produced and directed Darr, marking Shah Rukh Khan’s first collaboration with him. SRK played the obsessive lover, stealing the limelight alongside Juhi Chawla, Sunny Deol, and Anupam Kher. This thriller-romance showcased Chopra’s versatility and ability to explore darker shades of love.

5. Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)

Dil To Pagal Hai is one of Bollywood’s most beloved musical romances. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, Karisma Kapoor, and Akshay Kumar, the film was a massive hit for its story, choreography, and music. Chopra’s vision of love and friendship struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

6. Veer-Zaara (2004)

Veer-Zaara is a timeless Indo-Pakistani love story, featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta in the lead roles. With Yash Chopra at the helm, the film portrayed cross-border romance with grandeur, supported by actors like Rani Mukerji, Amitabh Bachchan, and Hema Malini. Its music and emotional narrative cemented Chopra’s reputation as the king of romance.

7. Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012)

Jab Tak Hai Jaan was Yash Chopra’s final directorial venture, released posthumously. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif, and Anushka Sharma, the film was a perfect farewell to the maestro. With memorable music and cinematic visuals, it encapsulated Chopra’s enduring legacy in Bollywood romance.

Yash Chopra’s films are still widely watched on OTT platforms, especially by audiences seeking timeless love stories. His mastery of storytelling, romance, and music has left an indelible mark on Bollywood, and his collaborations with Shah Rukh Khan are particularly celebrated.

Whether it’s the emotional depth of Waqt, the obsession of Darr, or the epic romance of Veer-Zaara, Yash Chopra’s films continue to define the art of love on screen.