Kajol plays Simran (right) in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.

Can DDLJ's Simran exist in a Gen Z world? Here's what Kajol said

Kajol reflected on how relationships and parenting have evolved since the 1990s. He said that today's generation has a very different approach compared to the world of DDLJ.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Kajol reflected on changes in relationships since 1990s
  • She said modern youth seek support, not permission, from parents
  • The actor emphasised family importance in life

Actor Kajol Devgan reflected on how relationships, parenting, and youth behaviour have evolved since the 1990s. She said the world today is very different from the era depicted in her iconic film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.

The actor, who played Simran in the classic romance, noted that the idea of a young woman seeking parental permission for life decisions has changed significantly over time.

In a conversation on Shame Less with Lilly Singh, Kajol explained how modern conversations between parents and children have shifted.

“I don’t think anybody at the age of 18 or 19 is going up and telling their dad, “Can I please go on this trip?” It’s more like, “Dad, I really have to go on this school trip, and you really have to pay for it.” So it’s more that than, you know, asking for permission,” she said.

The actor also shared what she hopes younger audiences, especially Gen Z, take away from the film’s legacy.

“I think what I would love for them to take away is that relationships and family matter at the end of the day, whatever we take from life. So I hope that’s one aspect of it: that your family is your family, and they love you. And, you know, that’s what it’s all about,” she said.

When asked what she would not want Gen Z to pick up from the film, she responded with her trademark humour, “My dressing sense, at least, for sure,” she said.

On the professional front, Kajol was last seen in the 2025 theatrical release Maa. That same year, she also appeared in the OTT film Sarzameen.

In addition, she co-hosted a talk show titled Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle alongside Twinkle Khanna.

- Ends