In the heart of London’s bustling Leicester Square, a new symbol of timeless romance now stands — the life-size bronze statue of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol as Raj and Simran from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. For millions across the world, DDLJ isn’t just a film; it is emotion, nostalgia, and a love story that defined an entire generation. London has now honoured that legacy.
How the Statue Came to Life
The idea of immortalising Raj and Simran began as a celebration of 30 years of DDLJ — a film that continues running in theatres and still commands affection from younger viewers. Leicester Square’s Scenes in the Square sculpture trail features global film icons, and adding DDLJ marked the first time a Bollywood film received such recognition.
On 4 December 2025, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol themselves unveiled the statue, recreating the magic of their classic pose. Fans gathered from across the UK, many dressed in DDLJ-inspired outfits, turning the event into a celebration of Indian cinema’s cultural reach.
Why Leicester Square?
Leicester Square is the centre of London’s cinema culture. Theatres here host countless international premieres. Placing Raj and Simran among global icons sends a clear message — Bollywood is not regional entertainment anymore; it is global cinema with global influence.
The statue stands on the eastern terrace, near the Odeon — a place where thousands of tourists pass each day, many stopping to take pictures with the legendary duo.
A Symbol Beyond Romance
Even after three decades, DDLJ remains loved because it captures the innocence of falling in love, the warmth of family bonds, and the beauty of tradition. The statue represents not just the actors, but the era of Indian romance that shaped countless real-life love stories.
It also acknowledges the Indian diaspora in the UK — people who grew up watching Raj and Simran and carried their memories across borders. London giving them a permanent place is a recognition of that emotional connection.
Other Statues in the Square include :
Leicester Square features several other iconic characters:
Harry Potter, captured mid-flight on his broomstick.
Paddington Bear, sitting on a bench with his marmalade sandwich.
Mr Bean, frozen in his classic comedic charm.
Mary Poppins, descending gracefully with her umbrella.
Batman, Wonder Woman, Laurel & Hardy, Indiana Jones, Bugs Bunny, and a recent addition — Bridget Jones.
These statues celebrate world film history — and now, Raj and Simran stand proudly among them.
