DDLJ
SRK and Kajol 'immortalised' in London: the heartfelt confession about DDLJ that fans are loving!
London/New Delhi/IBNS: Marking the 30th anniversary of Yash Raj Films’ epic blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveiled a bronze statue of Raj and Simran at London’s iconic Leicester Square on Thursday.
The statue is historic as DDLJ becomes the first Indian film to be honoured at Leicester Square, joining cult characters from films such as Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, Paddington, and iconic heroes like Batman and Wonder Woman. The bronze figure captures one of the film’s most iconic moments, celebrating its enduring influence on South Asian pop culture worldwide.
Reflecting on the launch, Shah Rukh Khan said, "To be honest I had no idea DDLJ would become this phenomenon! I’m very fortunate to have been part of a cinema like this and very grateful. None of us imagined what it became and what it stands for."
He added that the statue was deeply personal, highlighting the significance of the UK in shaping the global stardom of Indian cinema: "UK, London is quite responsible for our stardom in a way… what was known as overseas at that time, the biggest market was the UK."
Kajol echoed his sentiment, noting the film’s unprecedented success: "It's been 30 years and we are happy to say it's the longest-running film not just in India but in the world, even making it into the Guinness Book of World Records. Somewhere along the line, DDLJ has become a touchstone for Indians living abroad."
The statue is expected to evoke nostalgia for South Asians worldwide. Kajol added, "For all Indians who stay in the UK or visit, it’s a moment to recognise the film, a touch of home when they see us here in Leicester Square."
DDLJ, released in 1995, tells the story of Raj and Simran, two non-resident Indians who fall in love during a European trip, starting from a train at King’s Cross station.
The Leicester Square location of the statue is particularly fitting, as the square featured prominently in the film when Raj and Simran first crossed paths.
The film has since become a cultural touchstone for South Asian communities globally, with continued success in India and abroad, including a stage adaptation, Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical, which ran in Manchester earlier this year. Even former US President Barack Obama referenced the film during an official visit to India.
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