In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveiled a bronze statue of their iconic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) pose at Leicester Square in London. This is the first time a Bollywood film has been commemorated with a statue at the historic tourist hub, which features tributes to globally celebrated movies as part of the Scenes in the Square trail. The installation comes as DDLJ marks its 30th anniversary, celebrating its enduring legacy as one of India’s most beloved films.

The statue, positioned on the eastern terrace outside the Odeon cinema, captures the timeless image of Raj and Simran—the characters played by Khan and Kajol—whose love story reshaped Indian romantic cinema. The moment holds special significance as parts of the 1995 film were shot in and around Leicester Square, including the spot where the two protagonists first crossed paths unknowingly. The Heart of London Business Alliance described the tribute as a recognition of DDLJ’s global cultural impact.

DDLJ, which marked the directorial debut of Aditya Chopra and was produced under the Yash Raj Films banner by Yash Chopra, went on to become a cinematic milestone. Shot extensively across Europe and the UK, the film portrayed the journey of two young NRIs whose accidental meeting blossoms into a legendary love story. Iconic London landmarks such as Horseguards Avenue, Hyde Park, Tower Bridge and King’s Cross Station served as backdrops to the narrative, contributing to the film’s international charm.

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In an earlier statement, Mark Williams, deputy chief executive at the Heart of London Business Alliance, expressed delight at welcoming “titans of international cinema” like Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol to the movie trail. He emphasised that their inclusion reflects not only the widespread influence of Bollywood but also the cross-cultural appeal that DDLJ continues to enjoy across generations. The move underscores London’s recognition of global cinematic icons beyond Hollywood.

The unveiling ceremony drew admiration from fans and cinema lovers worldwide, many of whom regard DDLJ as a defining moment in Bollywood’s evolution. For three decades, the film has remained a pop-culture phenomenon, celebrated for its memorable dialogues, evergreen soundtrack and groundbreaking portrayal of diaspora romance. It continues to hold the record as one of the longest-running films in Indian cinema history, cementing its legendary status.

Further extending its legacy, DDLJ is also inspiring contemporary reinterpretations, including Come Fall In Love: The DDLJ Musical, which premiered this May at the Manchester Opera House. The stage adaptation introduces the classic story to new audiences while preserving its emotional core. With the installation of the bronze statue at Leicester Square, the film’s cultural footprint now spans continents, reaffirming its position as one of the most influential films ever made.

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