Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol Statue to Join London’s Iconic ‘Scenes in the Square’ Trail
A bronze statue of Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol will be unveiled in Leicester Square, London, later this year.
The sculpture celebrates the 30th anniversary of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), one of the most iconic and longest-running films in Indian cinema.
The statue will be part of the Scenes in the Square movie trail, joining the ranks of legendary characters such as Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, Gene Kelly from Singin’ in the Rain, and Batman.
A Historic First for Indian Cinema in London
This installation marks the first time an Indian film will be represented in Leicester Square’s film trail. DDLJ, released in 1995, introduced the directorial debut of Aditya Chopra and was produced by his father, renowned filmmaker Yash Chopra under the Yash Raj Films banner.
Shot extensively in the UK, the film follows the romantic journey of Raj and Simran, two non-resident Indians who fall in love while traveling through Europe.
Their first meeting in the film takes place near Leicester Square, making the location especially meaningful for fans.
Celebrating Global Influence
Mark Williams, deputy chief executive of the Heart of London Business Alliance, expressed his excitement over the addition of Indian cinema’s biggest stars to the iconic trail.
“Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge is one of the most successful and important Bollywood films of all time,” he said. “It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to add titans of international cinema like Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol to our trail.”
Williams added, “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.”
Positioned at a Pivotal Scene
According to the official announcement, the statue will be placed along the eastern terrace outside the Odeon Cinema.
This location pays homage to the moment in the film when Raj and Simran unknowingly cross paths for the first time. Other well-known London landmarks featured in the movie include Horseguards Avenue, Tower Bridge, Hyde Park, and King’s Cross Station.
A Cultural Touchstone
Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, said, “This statue will be a great way to express the international appeal of Indian movies and build bridges amongst communities through cinema.”
He noted that DDLJ had become a cultural phenomenon over the past three decades. “When DDLJ released 30 years ago, the film became a defining moment for Indian cinema, capturing the hearts of everyone who saw it all over the globe,” Widhani stated.
“We’re thrilled to be the first Indian film to be represented in Scenes in the Square. It also marks 30 years of DDLJ, a film that has spread love and joy globally and shows the cultural impact it has had in the UK.”
DDLJ’s Everlasting Legacy
Over the years, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge has cemented its place as a pop culture phenomenon. Its legacy continues to thrive across generations, not only in India but worldwide.
The statue unveiling coincides with the film’s 30th anniversary, which will be celebrated on October 20, 2025.
A new musical adaptation titled Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical is also set to premiere at the Manchester Opera House on May 29, 2025.
The musical is expected to introduce the timeless love story of Raj and Simran to a new generation, further reinforcing the film’s cultural impact.
Honoured Among Film Legends
“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,” Widhani added.
This tribute underscores the universal reach of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and highlights Bollywood’s growing footprint in global entertainment.
As the statue takes its place in Leicester Square, it serves not only as a celebration of cinematic history but also as a bridge connecting diverse audiences through a shared love of storytelling.
