Raj and Simran immortalised in London as DDLJ turns 30

WEB DESK: As if a rainy London was waiting to see Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol together as Raj and Simran, the city along with many fans of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) welcomed the famous on-screen jori to exist as they unveiled the statue immortalising the love story that changed generations forever. Marking its 30 years, Aditya Chopra’s DDLJ was released in 1995.

The installation marks the first time an Indian film has been recognised as part of the Scenes in the Square trail, joining cinematic legends like Paddington, Harry Potter, and Mary Poppins.

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Speaking at the ceremony, Khan said, “DDLJ was made with a pure heart… it is humbling to see the film, and Kajol and me, receiving so much love since it was released. Seeing DDLJ become the first Indian film honored here is an emotional moment I will never forget.” Kajol added, “Watching the statue being unveiled in London felt like reliving a piece of our history – a story that has truly traveled across generations.”

Leicester Square: a scene steeped in memory

The location is especially meaningful, featuring in a key scene where Raj and Simran unknowingly cross paths before their European journey. The statue captures the iconic pose from the film, with Raj in front of the Vue cinema and Simran walking past the Odeon.

From screen to stage

Since its 1995 release, DDLJ has become a cultural phenomenon and remains the longest-running Hindi film in theatres. Its legacy continues with adaptations like the stage musical, Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical, performed in Manchester earlier this year.

Celebrating global impact

CEO of Yash Raj Films, Akshaye Widhani, called the honour “a huge moment of pride” for telling heartwarming Indian stories to the world. The statue, the eleventh in the Scenes in the Square trail, was unveiled with the support of the Heart of London Business Alliance and Westminster City Council, cementing DDLJ’s place as a global cinematic icon.

Come meet Raj and Simran

Fans visiting London can now witness the immortalised romance firsthand, continuing to celebrate a film that transformed mustard fields into mood boards and Bollywood love stories into global doctrine.