Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol marked the 30th anniversary of Yash Raj Films' landmark blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) by unveiling a bronze statue of their iconic characters Raj and Simran at Leicester Square, London. This honour makes DDLJ the first Indian film to receive such recognition in the prestigious square, joining global legends like Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, and Batman.
The statue captures a memorable pose from Aditya Chopra's timeless romance, which famously featured Leicester Square in an early scene where Raj and Simran unknowingly cross paths before their European adventure. The event, attended by Yash Raj Films CEO Akshaye Widhani and Heart of London Business Alliance CEO Ros Morgan, celebrates the film's enduring pop culture legacy among South Asians worldwide.
Shah Rukh Khan reflected, "DDLJ was crafted with pure love to show how it bridges barriers. It's humbling to see its 30-year impact and share this with Kajol, Aditya Chopra, and the YRF family." Kajol added, "Reliving history in Leicester Square—the first Indian film honoured here—is unforgettable for DDLJ fans everywhere."
DDLJ, the longest-running Hindi film ever, follows NRIs Raj and Simran falling in love across Europe and India. Its 1995 release sparked a global phenomenon, even referenced by President Obama, with a recent UK stage musical adaptation.
Akshaye Widhani stated, "As YRF's first Indian film statue alongside Hollywood icons, this underscores DDLJ's worldwide cultural footprint after 50 years of storytelling."
