For decades, they have built the dreams audiences see on the silver screen – the carpenters building the sets, the lightmen creating the mood, the spot boys ensuring the shot is perfect. Yet, when the cameras stop rolling, the financial security of these film industry workers often fades to black.
The Yash Chopra Foundation (YCF), the philanthropic arm of Yash Raj Films, is changing that narrative. The Foundation has announced the launch of the Saathi Program 2026, a comprehensive, year long welfare initiative designed to be a steadfast companion to the thousands of workers who power Indian cinema from behind the scenes.
Moving beyond the Band-Aid solution of one time handouts, the Saathi Program is built on the principle of sustained, dignified support. It’s a commitment that stretches across 365 days, ensuring that the families who help bring stories to life have a strong story of their own.
A Hand Up, Not Just a Handout
Starting this year, the program will provide registered industry workers and their families with structured assistance that tackles the fundamental pillars of a secure life. The Saathi Program focuses on:
- Food on the Table: Monthly household assistance to strengthen food security.
- Health as a Priority: Comprehensive healthcare support, covering access to essential medicines and critical diagnostics.
- Future in Focus: Educational aid to ensure the children of film workers have access to learning and schooling.
- Staying Connected: Essential travel support, including assistance for annual hometown visits to reunite with extended family.
Special Focus: Our Seniors & Divyaangjan
Recognizing that vulnerability increases with age and circumstance, the Saathi Program 2026 places a special emphasis on retired film workers (aged 60 and above) and persons with disabilities. This demographic, often grappling with heightened healthcare needs and limited income, will receive targeted attention to ensure they are not left behind.
What’s New in 2026?
The 2026 iteration of the Saathi Program isn’t just a continuation; it’s an evolution. Key enhancements for this year include:
- Increased Financial Outlay: Higher annual support allocations per beneficiary to keep pace with rising costs of living.
- Flexible & Personalized Aid: A shift toward flexible benefit structures, allowing the program to tailor assistance to the unique needs of each individual or family.
- Expanded Healthcare Net: Prioritizing access to diagnostics and specialized treatment, catching health issues before they become crises.
- Digital & Dignified: The introduction of simplified digital delivery mechanisms ensures that accessing benefits is seamless, transparent, and removes bureaucratic hurdles for the workers.
A Legacy of Compassion
“At the Yash Chopra Foundation, we believe the magic of the movies is created by people, for people,” said a spokesperson for the Foundation. “With the Saathi Program 2026, we are reaffirming our promise to the workforce that remains unseen but is absolutely essential. We want to be their ‘saathi’ (companion) in navigating life’s challenges, ensuring they have the support they need to live with security and dignity.”
Through this initiative, the Yash Chopra Foundation continues to honor the legacy of the legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, ensuring that his spirit of compassion extends far beyond the screen and into the lives of those who make cinema possible.
For more information on the Saathi Program 2026 and eligibility criteria, visit https://www.yashrajfilms.com/yash-chopra-foundation
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