30 Years of DDLJ: Iconic Raj-Simran Statue Debuts in London

Leicester Square, London, has become a permanent home for Indian cinema’s enduring romance as a new bronze statue of Raj and Simran from “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (DDLJ) was unveiled. The statue commemorates three decades of the groundbreaking film produced by Yash Raj Films. This historic tribute is the first Indian film to receive such an honor in the renowned London landmark, standing alongside beloved characters from international cinema. Stars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol graced the ceremony, expressing their gratitude and joy. Khan emphasized the film’s core message of love and its power to connect people, a theme that has sustained DDLJ’s popularity for 30 years. He found it deeply moving to see the film, Kajol, and himself recognized with such an accolade. Kajol shared her elation, noting that the statue’s placement in Leicester Square, a location featured in the film, made the moment exceptionally poignant. She expressed thanks for the continued love the film has received over the years. Yash Raj Films CEO Akshaye Widhani and Ros Morgan, Chief Executive of the Heart of London Business Alliance, were also in attendance. Widhani spoke of the immense pride in witnessing DDLJ, an Indian story, gain international recognition and be immortalized amongst Hollywood legends, reinforcing the film’s significant global cultural footprint. The statue serves as a testament to DDLJ’s enduring appeal, its status as the longest-running film in Hindi cinema history, and its continued cultural relevance worldwide.