Bollywood legends Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol made history today, personally unveiling a stunning bronze statue of their iconic characters, Raj and Simran, in London’s world-renowned Leicester Square. The unveiling ceremony marks a monumental tribute, celebrating 30 years of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), one of Indian cinema’s most enduring love stories.
The life-size sculpture is the first-ever Indian film to be honoured in the Square’s prestigious ‘Scenes in the Square’ cinematic trail, standing alongside global icons like Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, and Batman. Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, braving the typically English rain, recreated their famous pose in front of the statue, transforming the London square into a scene straight out of their timeless 1995 hit.
The bronze statue captures Raj and Simran in a signature, romantic dancing pose, specifically referencing the beloved song “Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna.” The location, Leicester Square, holds profound significance for the film, as it is where Raj and Simran first unknowingly cross paths before embarking on their memorable European train journey.
The inclusion of the DDLJ statue in the public art trail underscores the film’s massive cultural impact, not just in India and the South Asian diaspora, but across the United Kingdom. The Heart of London Business Alliance, which commissioned the trail, recognized the film’s unique legacy as the longest-running film in Indian cinema history.
In a joint social media post that instantly went viral, Shah Rukh Khan quoted the film’s most famous line, writing:
“Bade Bade Deshon Mein, Aisi Chhoti Chhoti Baatein Hoti Rehti Hain, Senorita! Thrilled to unveil the bronze statue of Raj & Simran at London’s Leicester Square today, celebrating 30 years of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ)!”
He added that he felt “incredibly delighted” that DDLJ became the first Indian film to receive this honour.
Speaking at the launch event, both actors shared emotional reflections on how the film has become an integral part of their identities and a cultural touchstone for millions globally.
Shah Rukh Khan expressed deep humility and pride, emphasizing the simple, sincere intention behind the film:
“DDLJ was made with a pure heart. We wanted to tell a story about love, how it can bridge barriers and how the world would be a better place if it had a lot of love in it, and I think this is why DDLJ has had a lasting impact for over 30 years now! Personally, DDLJ is part of my identity, and it is humbling to see the film, and Kajol and me, receiving so much love since it was released.”
Kajol, who attended the event with her children, Nysa and Yug, echoed the sentiment, calling the moment a profound return to the past:
“It’s incredible to see Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge continue to receive so much love, even 30 years later. Watching the statue being unveiled in London felt like reliving a piece of our history—a story that has truly travelled across generations.”
Kajol further noted that seeing the statue find its “rightful place” in Leicester Square, a location so significant to DDLJ‘s setting, made the tribute even more special.
The landmark moment also served as a major tribute to director Aditya Chopra and the legacy of Yash Raj Films (YRF). DDLJ was Aditya Chopra’s directorial debut, and its success cemented YRF’s position as a global leader in Indian cinema.
Akshaye Widhani, CEO of YRF, hailed the moment as “a huge moment of pride,” stating that the recognition alongside Hollywood icons demonstrated the immense cultural impact DDLJ achieved worldwide, including in the UK.
The film, which tells the story of two young non-resident Indians (NRIs) falling in love during a European vacation, captured the hearts of the diaspora by celebrating love while respecting tradition. Its enduring popularity ensures the statue will not only serve as a tribute to the film but also as a permanent monument to Indian cinema’s global reach in one of the world’s most famous cinematic hubs.
