Picture Courtesy – Yash Raj Films
A Historic Tribute to Indian Cinema
In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, a bronze statue of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, Bollywood’s most iconic on-screen pair, is set to be unveiled at Leicester Square in London. The statue honours their classic romantic film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), becoming the first Indian movie to be commemorated in the prestigious Scenes in the Square movie trail.
Celebrating 30 Years of a Bollywood Classic
Timed with the film’s 30th anniversary, the statue is part of a global celebration of DDLJ, a movie that redefined modern Bollywood romance. Released in 1995, it was the directorial debut of Aditya Chopra and quickly became one of the most successful and beloved films in Indian cinema history.
A Scene That Captured Hearts and Leicester Square
According to Yash Raj Films (YRF), the statue will recreate an iconic moment from the movie filmed in Leicester Square. In the scene, Raj (Shah Rukh Khan) stands outside the Vue Cinema while Simran (Kajol) walks past the Odeon Cinema, their paths unknowingly crossing at the start of their European adventure. Appropriately, the statue will be placed on the eastern terrace outside the Odeon, marking the exact location of the moment.
A Cultural Milestone for British South Asians
The tribute also speaks volumes to the over five million-strong British South Asian community, for whom DDLJ remains a cherished symbol of identity and nostalgia. The statue joins a prestigious lineup of cinematic legends, including Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, Mr. Bean, Paddington, Laurel & Hardy, Bugs Bunny, Gene Kelly, and superheroes like Batman and Wonder Woman.
Global Recognition for Bollywood Icons
Mark Williams, Deputy Chief Executive of the Heart of London Business Alliance, praised the addition of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol to the trail.
“It’s fantastic to add Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol to our trail,” he said. “DDLJ is one of the most important Bollywood films of all time. It’s also the first featured film in the trail that was actually shot in Leicester Square.”
He added, “This statue is a tribute not only to the film’s enduring popularity but also to London’s rich multicultural identity.”
A Moment of Pride for Yash Raj Films
Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, expressed his excitement and pride at the global recognition the film continues to receive.
“When Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge was released 30 years ago, it became a defining moment in Indian cinema,” Widhani said. “We are honoured that our film and our stars are being celebrated on such a prestigious international platform.”
He added, “This statue is more than just a tribute to a film—it’s a celebration of the power of cinema to unite cultures, build bridges, and spread love across the world.”
A Timeless Love Story Across Borders
Often hailed as Bollywood’s Romeo and Juliet, DDLJ follows the story of Raj and Simran, two non-resident Indians who meet by chance on a European trip that changes their lives. Their love story begins at London’s King’s Cross Station and weaves through picturesque landscapes in Europe and India, ultimately becoming a cultural touchstone across generations.
Joining the Legends of Cinema
The Scenes in the Square trail, managed by the Heart of London Business Alliance and supported by Westminster City Council, celebrates over a century of film history. With this latest addition, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol now take their place among the pantheon of cinematic greats, further cementing DDLJ’s legacy as a global and cross-cultural phenomenon.
