A New Era for UK-India Film Collaboration
In a major development for the global film industry, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that Yash Raj Films (YRF) will produce three large-scale Bollywood blockbusters in the United Kingdom beginning in 2026. The partnership is expected to generate over 3,000 jobs and contribute millions to the British economy, reinforcing the UK’s position as a top destination for international filmmaking.
Making the announcement in Mumbai, Prime Minister Starmer visited Yash Raj Studios alongside representatives from the British Film Institute (BFI), British Film Commission, Pinewood Studios, Elstree Studios, and Civic Studios. The visit forms part of a two-day trade mission focused on deepening commercial, cultural, and creative partnerships between the UK and India.
Strengthening Creative Ties and Economic Growth
The UK’s film and television industry contributes around £12 billion annually to the economy and supports nearly 90,000 jobs nationwide. With state-of-the-art studios, skilled professionals, and iconic filming locations, Britain continues to be a preferred production hub for global filmmakers.
India, home to the world’s largest film industry, is a natural creative partner. YRF’s decision to resume shooting in the UK after an eight-year hiatus marks renewed cultural synergy and the positive impact of the growing UK-India trade relationship.
“The return of Bollywood to Britain is a win for jobs, investment, and creativity,” said Prime Minister Starmer. “This partnership showcases the UK as a world-class filmmaking destination and highlights the potential of our trade collaboration with India to deliver real benefits for both nations.”
YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani echoed the sentiment, calling the partnership a “homecoming” for the studio. “The UK has always been special for us—films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge were shot here, and we’re thrilled to rekindle that connection as the film marks its 30th anniversary,” Widhani said.
Expanding Cultural and Creative Cooperation
The announcement was accompanied by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the BFI and India’s National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). The agreement aims to promote co-productions, facilitate resource sharing, and strengthen both nations’ creative capacities.
Industry leaders from Pinewood, Elstree, and Civic Studios emphasized that the collaboration offers opportunities to reach global audiences while fostering diversity and innovation in storytelling.
Past collaborations, such as the global success of Slumdog Millionaire, have already demonstrated the power of combining British technical excellence with Indian cinematic creativity. The new agreement aims to build on that legacy—boosting the UK’s creative economy while amplifying India’s global filmmaking footprint.
