Indian Filmmaker Who Put Switzerland On Tourist Map

Do films have the ability to do more than just entertain? Can one filmmaker contribute to diplomatic relations with another country? Well, if you know Yash Raj Chopra, then the answer is yes.

Statue of Yash Raj Chopra in Switzerland; Source: MySwitzerland tourism site

The Swiss Alps, with their snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes, is a sight to behold. But for Indians, these stunning landscapes have become synonymous with romance and beauty, thanks to one man, Yash Raj Chopra.

Chopra, a legendary filmmaker from India, has been instrumental in promoting tourism in Switzerland. The stunning landscapes of the snow-capped country, captured in films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Chandni, and Mohabbatein, have become synonymous with romance and beauty for Indians. Thereby, building a window into the stunning Swiss Alps, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque towns, inspiring countless Indians to visit Switzerland.

So much has been the man’s contribution to the country’s tourism that in 2016, two years after his death, the Swiss government inaugurated his bronze statue in Interlaken, one of the most beautiful towns in the Swiss Alps. It was unveiled by the Swiss Ambassador to India, Linus von Castelmur, and Yash Raj Chopra's wife, Pamela Chopra.

The statue, which weighs 350 kg and stands tall at six feet, depicts Chopra with a camera in hand, capturing the scenic beauty of Switzerland that he so beautifully showcased in his films.

However, this statue is more than just a tribute to Yash Raj's legacy; it represents the deep cultural connection between India and Switzerland. On one hand, Chopra’s films brought a touch of Indian culture to Switzerland, showcasing the vibrant colours, music, and dance of India against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps. On the other hand, Switzerland became a part of Indian popular culture, with its beauty and romance becoming integral parts of Bollywood films.

As tourists visit Interlaken and gaze upon the statue of Yash Raj Chopra, they are reminded of how the statue acts as a symbol of soft diplomacy and how it showcases the power of art to bring diverse people together. It is a testament to the competency of culture in forging lasting connections and breaking down cultural barriers.

But as one thinks deeper, one realises that the statue is not just a representation of cultural exchange; it is also a celebration of tackling important social issues and challenging cultural norms through the art of cinema. Chopra was a filmmaker who used his art to make a difference in society by highlighting the bravery of individual souls, the power of love over caste and class differences, and putting affection at the forefront against hatred. And these ideals continue to inspire and entertain audiences through his films and memorials like this one.

Even today, as the wind blows through the Swiss Alps, it carries with it the memories of Yash Raj Chopra's films, reminding us of the power of beauty, love, and humanity to transcend cultural boundaries. The statue of Yash Raj Chopra in Interlaken has become a beacon of hope, reminding us that no matter how different we may seem on the surface, art has the power to bring us together in a celebration of our shared humanity.