United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer touched down in Mumbai to kick off his two-day trip to the country, on Wednesday. Soon after landing in the city, he visited the Yash Raj Films (YRF) studio in Mumbai`s Andheri suburb, a key Bollywood production hub, where he met Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji and attended a special movie screening with her.
UK PM Keir Starmer attends movie screening with Rani Mukerji
The PM`s visit aims at strengthening cultural ties and promoting collaboration between the British and Indian film industries. Keir Starmer, who flew in from London earlier on Wednesday, drove to the YRF Studios amid heavy police security. Bollywood star Rani Mukerji welcomed Starmer upon his visit to the Yash Raj Films studio.
“The official meeting between the UK PM and Indian producers was a fruitful discussion about making movies together,” sources said. Keir Starmer also attended a film screening at the production studio with Rani, who is married to Aditya Chopra, the head of Yash Raj Films and a renowned producer. Yash Raj Films CEO Akshaye Widhani was joined by Rani and Keir.
His visit to the production facility is believed to be a step toward fostering creative partnerships, including potential joint film projects and cultural exchange programmes. Due to his visit, the security arrangements were enhanced at key locations in the vicinity.
UK PM Keir Starmer`s Mumbai visit
In a post on X on Wednesday, he said, “Welcome Prime Minister Keir Starmer, on your historic first visit to India with the largest ever trade delegation from the UK. Looking forward to our meeting tomorrow for advancing our shared vision of a stronger, mutually prosperous future.”
Upon arrival at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, he was received by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar.
The UK PM has arrived in India with a large delegation of 125 members, consisting of CEOs, entrepreneurs, university Vice Chancellors, and cultural leaders.
Keir Starmer`s visit marks a significant milestone in India-UK diplomatic and cultural relations, combining film, sport, and commerce under a single strategic agenda.
Later in the day, Keir Starmer is also scheduled to participate in a football showcase event organised by the English Premier League at Cooperage football ground in south Mumbai.
The event is designed to promote sports diplomacy and strengthen ties between the UK and India in the field of football. Former England international Michael Owen is also expected to attend the event, alongside local football enthusiasts and young players.
(With inputs from agencies)
