To commemorate three decades of the cinematic masterpiece ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ (DDLJ), Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol recently unveiled a magnificent bronze statue in London’s iconic Leicester Square. This special tribute celebrates the enduring charm of Raj and Simran, characters who have etched themselves into the hearts of audiences worldwide and significantly shaped South Asian pop culture.
The newly erected statue immortalizes Raj and Simran in a pose that instantly evokes the film’s romantic essence. This landmark achievement makes DDLJ the inaugural Indian film to be honored with a statue in Leicester Square, joining an elite group of characters from beloved international films and comic book heroes. At the unveiling, Shah Rukh Khan reflected on the film’s success, attributing it to its heartfelt narrative about love’s power to overcome obstacles and connect people across divides. He acknowledged the profound personal connection he shares with DDLJ and the overwhelming love the film continues to receive.
Kajol expressed her delight and emotional connection to the moment, noting how the statue’s unveiling felt like revisiting a cherished past. She highlighted the significance of Leicester Square itself, a location woven into the film’s narrative, and the profound honor of DDLJ being the first Indian film to receive such a prestigious recognition in the UK.
Yash Raj Films CEO Akshaye Widhani conveyed the company’s pride in this global recognition, emphasizing DDLJ’s role in their mission to share heartwarming Indian stories. He pointed out the film’s standing among international cinematic icons as a testament to its widespread cultural impact. The statue’s presence in Leicester Square is particularly fitting, given that the square itself played a backdrop for key moments in Raj and Simran’s European adventure, including scenes filmed near the Vue and Odeon cinemas.
Released in 1995, DDLJ rapidly ascended to become a cultural phenomenon, particularly within South Asian communities globally. It holds the record for the longest continuous theatrical run in Hindi cinema history. The film’s lasting influence is evident, even extending to a stage musical adaptation in the UK, titled ‘Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical’.