If the critic in me judges DDLJ, it is a typical melodrama. But the aesthetics and escapism it still extends to me or any moviegoer in India is indescribable. Raj and Simran reshaped the romantic models of India when DDLJ was released in 1995. One of the most successful films of Bollywood had the power to bring a cultural shift in Indian households when Aditya Chopra made Simran’s bauji say – go, live your life.

Netflix’s new docuseries The Romantics is all about YRF (Yash Raj Films) filmography. Off Yash Chopra Bollywood’s history is lean. The veteran filmmaker made films of his choice and introduced many stars. Aditya Chopra started as his assistant and continues the lineage with the freedom of a rich kid.

Yash Chopra loved success and was upset whenever his films flopped. He used to sit alone and would not speak for days – remembers his wife Pamela who smartly coordinated the backstage of Yash productions then.

The four-part series is a star-studded stage. From King Khan to the latest in the lot. Karan Johar was seen assisting Aditya in DDLJ and his interviews with Yash Chopra are worth catching. Amitabh Bachchan, acted in many Yash hits and Abhishek friends with Adi and Uday share rare memories.

Stories from the 60s to Yash Chopra’s last movie carry a big chunk of Bollywood films and stars and their growth through YRF. Interestingly, Sha Rukh wanted to be an action hero and he was reluctant to be Raj in DDLJ! Ranvir’s first audition is another highlight. To be politically correct, Smriti Mundra- director of TR touches upon nepotism and other influences from inner film circles.

TR is worth watching. It took me back to the glossy texture of Bollywood in Yash era. Equally nostalgic was the research eagerly grabbing past. Rare visuals from the locations of Yash films, changes in their filmmaking, behind-the-scenes of the casting of new stars, etc.

But the big catch is recluse Adi Chopra on camera at ease who (reportedly) made no public appearance since he lifted a Film fare award for DDLJ in 1996.