DDLJ Becomes First Indian Film Honoured with Statue at London's 'Scenes in the Square'

In a historic moment for Indian cinema, Bollywood’s iconic on-screen couple Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol are set to be immortalised in bronze in London. Their legendary film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) will become the first Indian movie to be honoured at the renowned Scenes in the Square movie trail in Leicester Square.

The prestigious recognition comes as part of the 30-year celebrations of DDLJ, one of Indian cinema’s most beloved and successful films. The Heart of London Business Alliance, in association with Yash Raj Films (YRF), recently announced the installation of a bronze statue featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in an iconic pose from the film.

According to Yash Raj Films, “the Heart of London Business Alliance has announced a new statue will be joining the exciting 'Scenes in the Square' movie trail in Leicester Square, with historic blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) erected statue in London.”

This tribute highlights DDLJ's extraordinary popularity, particularly within the British South Asian community, which numbers over five million. The statue is set to be unveiled in Spring this year and will be placed outside the Odeon Cinema on the eastern terrace of Leicester Square – the very location where Raj and Simran, the film’s lead characters, unknowingly cross paths for the first time.

“The statue is a fitting tribute to the global popularity of Bollywood and a celebration of London's rich diversity. We're in no doubt it will attract fans from all around the world to Leicester Square, the home of film and entertainment,” said Mark Williams, Deputy Chief Executive at Heart of London Business Alliance, as quoted in YRF’s official statement.

DDLJ, released in 1995, follows the romantic journey of Raj (Shah Rukh Khan) and Simran (Kajol), two non-resident Indians, whose love story unfolds across Europe and India, beginning on a train from King’s Cross Station. The location of Leicester Square is particularly symbolic, as the area featured in the film during their first encounter.

The new statue will position Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol alongside legendary global film characters such as Harry Potter, Laurel & Hardy, Bugs Bunny, Mary Poppins, Mr. Bean, Paddington, and DC superheroes Batman and Wonder Woman.

Expressing his delight, Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, remarked, “When Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) was released 30 years ago, the film became a defining moment for Indian cinema and changed the face of the industry, capturing the hearts of everyone who saw it all over the globe. We're thrilled to be the first Indian film to be represented in 'Scenes in the Square'.”

He further added, “We are honoured that our superstars and our film are being recognised on the world stage alongside the Hollywood elite, from Gene Kelly to Laurel & Hardy to Harry Potter. This statue will be a great way to express the international appeal of Indian movies and build bridges amongst communities through cinema.”

Directed by Aditya Chopra, DDLJ not only redefined Bollywood romance but also became a symbol of cultural connection for the Indian diaspora across the globe. Alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, the film featured stellar performances from Amrish Puri and Anupam Kher.

As the unveiling approaches, this landmark recognition stands as a testament to DDLJ's timeless charm and its indelible mark on world cinema.