London's Leicester Square witnessed a historic moment on December 4, 2025, as Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveiled a bronze statue of their characters, Raj and Simran, from the timeless classic "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" (DDLJ). The statue commemorates 30 years of the film's release and marks the first time an Indian film has been honored with a statue in the area. The statue has been placed on the "Scenes in the Square" movie trail, joining figures from other global cinematic icons.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by a large crowd of fans and tourists who gathered to witness the event. Shah Rukh Khan, reflecting on the film's enduring legacy, said, "Thrilled to unveil the bronze statue of Raj & Simran at London's Leicester Square today, celebrating 30 years of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ)! Incredibly delighted that DDLJ is the first Indian film to be honoured with a statue in the Scenes in the Square trail. A big thank you to everyone in the UK for making this possible. Come meet Raj & Simran if and when you are in London…".
Kajol described her character Simran as "a chapter that refuses to end," acknowledging the film's lasting impact on audiences. The statue captures Raj and Simran in a signature pose from the film, instantly recognizable to fans worldwide.
"Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge," released on October 20, 1995, tells the story of Raj and Simran, two young non-resident Indians who fall in love during a European holiday. The film was a massive commercial success and won numerous awards, becoming one of the most beloved and influential films in Indian cinema history. Its themes of love, family, and cultural identity resonated with audiences both in India and abroad, and its music, dialogues, and iconic scenes have become deeply embedded in popular culture.
Mark Williams, deputy chief executive at the Heart of London Business Alliance, hailed Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol as "titans of international cinema," emphasizing the importance of including their likenesses in the Leicester Square trail. He noted the sculpture recognized the film's achievements and Bollywood's significant presence in the United Kingdom.
The statue's location in Leicester Square holds special significance, as the area is featured in the film. In an early scene, Raj and Simran walk past each other near the Vue cinema and the Odeon, respectively, before their paths converge. The statue is now situated between those two spots, creating a new landmark for fans to visit and relive the film's iconic moments. Other London locations featured in "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" include King's Cross station, Tower Bridge, Hyde Park, and Horseguards Avenue, forming an informal map for fans to trace the film's journey through the city.
The addition of the "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" statue to Leicester Square's "Scenes in the Square" trail celebrates the film's enduring legacy and its contribution to global cinema. It also acknowledges the significant role that Bollywood plays in the United Kingdom's cultural landscape. The statue serves as a testament to the power of love, the importance of cultural connections, and the magic of cinema.
