British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the Yash Raj Films (YRF) Studios in Mumbai on October 8, 2025, where he announced plans for the production house to film three major Bollywood productions across the United Kingdom starting early 2026. This move is expected to create over 3,000 jobs and boost the British economy by millions of pounds. Starmer, who was accompanied by key figures from the British film industry, including the British Film Institute and Pinewood Studios, hailed the partnership as a significant outcome of the UK-India trade deal aimed at strengthening cultural ties and economic growth.
Starmer declared Bollywood’s return to Britain as a sign of renewed collaboration, emphasising how the initiative will showcase the UK as a world-class destination for global filmmaking, bringing jobs, investment, and opportunity to communities across the country. The visit saw the Prime Minister interacting with prominent Indian producers and Bollywood stars, including Rani Mukerji and YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani.
Yash Raj Films confirmed that the productions will utilise various UK locations, marking their return to British shores after an eight-year hiatus. The announcement coincides with the 30th anniversary of YRF’s iconic film ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, much of which was originally shot in the UK. CEO Akshaye Widhani also revealed that the company is producing an English stage adaptation of the film titled ‘Come Fall in Love’ in the UK, further symbolising the deepening cultural connection between the two countries.
The visit reinforces Starmer’s commitment to fostering creative partnerships between India and the UK through the film sector, a key component in the broader diplomatic and trade relationship. The cooperation includes plans for a memorandum of understanding between the British Film Institute and the National Film Development Commission of India that will encourage co-productions, resource sharing, and talent exchange.
Starmer’s two-day visit to India, which involves high-level meetings and cultural engagements, underscores the importance both nations place on strengthening their creative and economic links through collaboration in cinema and the arts.
