Actor Parmeet Sethi recently stirred controversy by calling Shah Rukh Khan’s character Raj in the iconic film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) the ‘real villain.’ Sethi argued that Raj’s actions led to the heartbreak of Kuljit’s fiancée, sparking renewed debate about character perspectives in Bollywood classics.
Parmeet Sethi calls Shah Rukh Khan’s Raj the ‘real villain’ in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, highlighting overlooked character perspectives in the Bollywood classic.
Mumbai, October 27, 2025 – Parmeet Sethi, known for his versatile roles in Bollywood, has offered a fresh perspective on the beloved character Raj, portrayed by Shah Rukh Khan, in the 1995 cult classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). During a recent interview, Sethi referred to Raj as the ‘real villain’ of the film, claiming that his character’s actions were responsible for the heartbreak of Kuljit’s fiancée.
Sethi, who played Kuljit Singh in the film, was responding to ongoing fan discussions surrounding the complex relationships depicted in the romantic drama. He remarked that while Raj is often celebrated as a heroic lover, the repercussions of his pursuit of Simran—Kuljit’s former fiancée—had significant emotional consequences for other characters. “Raj essentially took away Kuljit’s fiancée,” Sethi stated, challenging the traditional narrative that positions Raj solely as the protagonist.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, directed by Aditya Chopra, remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic romantic films, celebrated for its portrayal of love and cultural values. Shah Rukh Khan’s Raj has long been seen as the quintessential romantic hero. However, Sethi’s comments invite audiences to reconsider the nuances of character roles and the impact of their actions beyond the central love story.
The film narrates the journey of Raj and Simran, whose love story unfolds across Europe and India. Raj’s relentless efforts to win Simran’s family’s approval culminate in a climactic reunion, but according to Sethi, these events also underscore the overshadowing of Kuljit’s character arc. Sethi’s interpretation sheds light on the secondary characters, urging viewers to recognize their perspectives which are often overlooked.
While the actor’s statement has sparked debate on social media and among cinema enthusiasts, many fans continue to uphold Raj’s role as a beloved romantic figure. Nevertheless, Sethi’s critique contributes to a broader discourse on how classic films are perceived and the importance of considering all character dimensions.
Parmeet Sethi’s remarks have renewed interest in DDLJ’s narrative complexity and highlight how iconic stories can be re-examined through different lenses. These discussions not only engage longtime fans but also invite new audiences to explore the film’s themes with a critical eye.
In summary, Parmeet Sethi’s characterization of Shah Rukh Khan’s Raj as the ‘real villain’ challenges popular perceptions of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. By spotlighting the emotional fallout experienced by other characters, Sethi encourages a more nuanced understanding of the film’s storyline and character dynamics.
