Three decades after Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) first captured hearts across the globe, Bollywood’s most iconic love story has transcended the screen — quite literally — with a stunning tribute unveiled in the heart of London.
In a dazzling ceremony held at Leicester Square, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, the legendary on-screen couple, were immortalized in bronze, celebrating 30 years of their unforgettable chemistry in the 1995 romantic blockbuster. The statue, commissioned as part of the “Scenes in the Square” initiative, now stands among global cinematic legends — the first Bollywood tribute of its kind in the UK.
An Iconic Pose for an Eternal Love Story
The statue features the beloved pair in their most memorable pose — Raj (SRK) with his arms outstretched, and Simran (Kajol) gazing toward him in that classic moment of longing, innocence, and magic. Set against the backdrop of cinematic history, the sculpture brings to life the evergreen moment that defined an era of Indian cinema.
“For us, DDLJ was not just a film — it was a heartbeat,” said Kajol at the unveiling, visibly emotional. “To see this love story preserved in bronze, here in London where so much of the film was shot, is surreal.”
Shah Rukh Khan, who could not attend in person, sent a heartfelt video message, saying, “From mustard fields to Leicester Square — Raj and Simran have come a long way. I’m honoured and humbled by this tribute, and grateful to the fans who’ve kept the magic alive for 30 years.”
Cultural Impact Beyond Borders
Directed by Aditya Chopra and produced by Yash Raj Films, DDLJ remains the longest-running film in Indian cinema history and a cross-generational symbol of love and diaspora identity. Much of the film was shot in London and Switzerland, making the city a fitting location for this tribute.
Tim Richards, chair of the British Film Commission, spoke at the ceremony: “Bollywood is an integral part of the global cinematic landscape, and DDLJ is a cornerstone of that legacy. This statue recognizes the cultural bridge that cinema builds between nations.”
Fans Celebrate – “Raj & Simran Forever!”
Fans from around the world flocked to the square, many dressed in 90s Bollywood fashion, singing “Tujhe Dekha To” and reliving the magic of DDLJ with flowers, photos, and even impromptu dance numbers. Some came from as far as Mumbai and Toronto to witness the unveiling.
“This is more than nostalgia — it’s history,” said Priya Singh, a fan from Birmingham. “DDLJ taught us about love, courage, and family. Seeing them here, cast in bronze, is like seeing a piece of my childhood come to life.”
As the sun set over Leicester Square, lights danced around the statue, illuminating not just two beloved characters, but an entire generation’s shared dream.
Raj and Simran may have caught the last train in 1995 — but today, their love story stands still, timeless and unshakable, in the heart of London.
