In a historic first for Indian cinema, the timeless love story of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) is set to be immortalised in bronze at London’s famous Leicester Square. The statue, capturing the iconic pose of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol from the 1995 romantic classic, will become part of the prestigious Scenes in the Square movie trail—making DDLJ the first-ever Indian film to receive this honour.
Set to be unveiled this spring, the sculpture celebrates not only the film's legacy but also marks the beginning of DDLJ’s 30th anniversary celebrations. The bronze tribute will be placed on the eastern terrace outside the Odeon Cinema, depicting the moment when Raj and Simran first cross paths in London—unaware of the love story that awaits them. The location, where the characters unknowingly pass each other, is symbolic for fans who cherish the film’s opening scenes.
Produced by Yash Raj Films and directed by Aditya Chopra in his debut, DDLJ has become a cornerstone of Indian cinema, redefining the romantic genre for generations. Its impact continues to resonate deeply with global audiences, especially the five million-strong British South Asian community for whom the story is both nostalgic and culturally significant.
Mark Williams, Deputy Chief Executive of the Heart of London Business Alliance, praised the addition of Shah Rukh and Kajol to the trail, which already features iconic characters like Harry Potter, Mr. Bean, and Mary Poppins. “This statue is a fitting tribute to the global popularity of Bollywood and a celebration of London’s rich diversity,” he said, adding that it will draw fans from across the globe to the capital’s entertainment heart.
Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, expressed pride in the milestone: “It’s an honour for DDLJ to be the first Indian film represented in ‘Scenes in the Square’. This statue showcases the global love for our cinema and builds bridges between cultures through storytelling.”
Since its release in 1995, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge has enjoyed unparalleled success, becoming one of the longest-running films in Indian cinematic history. The upcoming statue is not just a tribute to a film—it’s a celebration of a cultural phenomenon that continues to inspire love stories around the world.
As DDLJ joins the ranks of global film greats in London, the statue of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol stands as a bronze symbol of Bollywood’s enduring charm and its place on the world stage.
