What can be a better way to celebrate Yash Chopra’s 92nd birth anniversary who not only shine through his timeless films but also with a newly launched initiative by the Yash Chopra Foundation (YCF).
Yash Chopra, the visionary behind Yash Raj Films, left an unforgettable mark on Bollywood, earning six National Film Awards, eight Filmfare Awards, and prestigious honours like the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2001) and the Padma Bhushan (2005). His influence, particularly in romantic films with dynamic female leads, is remembered fondly, with his contributions to cinema setting a new standard for Bollywood story.
Yash Chopra began his career as an assistant director, making his directorial debut with Dhool Ka Phool (1959). However, it was Waqt (1965) that established him as a director of immense calibre. In 1970, he founded Yash Raj Films and released Daag: A Poem of Love (1973), marking the beginning of a new era in Hindi cinema. The 1970s saw Chopra create classics like Deewaar (1975), Kabhi Kabhie (1976), and Trishul (1978), establishing Amitabh’sposition as a Bollywood icon.
Chopra’s collaboration with actress Sridevi in Chandni (1989) and Lamhe (1991) is considered one of his finest, with Chandni revitalising the romantic musical genre.
After a brief setback with Parampara (1993), Chopra delivered the thriller Darr (1993), which began a successful partnership with Shahrukh Khan. This collaboration produced some of Bollywood’s most beloved films, including Dil To Pagal Hai (1997), Veer-Zaara (2004), and Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012).
Though he announced his retirement in 2012, Chopra's death from dengue during the production of Jab Tak Hai Jaan left a void in the film industry. His work, however, continues to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
As a tribute on his 92nd birth anniversary, the Yash Chopra Foundation has unveiled the YCF Scholarship Program to support the children of film industry workers facing financial difficulties. The initiative, aimed at members of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), offers scholarships of up to INR 5 lakhs based on merit.
The program seeks to empower deserving candidates to pursue higher education in fields such as Mass Communication, Filmmaking, Production, Visual Arts, Cinematography, and Animation, ensuring that the behind-the-scenes contributors to Bollywood receive recognition and opportunities.
This tribute not only honours Chopra’s cinematic brilliance but also reflects his commitment to uplifting the community that helped build his legacy.
