Synopsis
The iconic film DDLJ, featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, will have a statue unveiled in Leicester Square, marking a significant tribute to Indian cinema's cultural impact in the UK. This bronze statue is set to be part of the ‘Scenes in the Square’ trail, celebrating 30 years of the beloved film.Key Takeaways
- DDLJ becomes the first Indian cinema statue in Leicester Square.
- The statue will depict Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in a famous pose.
- Unveiling coincides with DDLJ's 30th anniversary celebrations.
- Leicester Square features prominently in the film's storyline.
- DDLJ's cultural significance continues with a new musical adaptation.
Mumbai, April 9 (NationPress) The 1995 hit film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (DDLJ), featuring Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, is on track to have the first statue dedicated to Indian cinema in London's Leicester Square.
The statue, crafted from bronze, will depict SRK and Kajol in a memorable pose from the film. Set for unveiling in Spring this year, this initiative highlights the film's immense popularity among the thriving British South Asian community, which numbers over two million.
On Wednesday, the Heart of London Business Alliance confirmed that the DDLJ statue will be included in the ‘Scenes in the Square’ cinematic trail at Leicester Square. This unveiling will kick off celebrations marking the film's 30-year legacy, which began the directorial journey of Aditya Chopra.
The plot of “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” tells the story of two non-resident Indians, Raj and Simran, and their fateful love story that unfolds across Europe and India, starting from a train journey at King’s Cross Station.
Leicester Square is an ideal location, as it features in DDLJ during the moment when Raj and Simran unknowingly cross paths before embarking on their European journey. This memorable scene highlights two cinemas in the square, with Raj in front of the Vue cinema and Simran walking by the Odeon Leicester Square.
The statue will be positioned on the eastern terrace, adjacent to the Odeon cinema, to commemorate this iconic scene. Other notable London locations from the film include Horseguards Avenue, Hyde Park, Tower Bridge, and King’s Cross Station.
DDLJ's cultural significance in the UK persists, as a new musical adaptation, Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical, is set to debut at the Manchester Opera House on May 29, 2025.
The DDLJ statue will stand alongside legendary film characters like Harry Potter, Laurel & Hardy, Bugs Bunny, Gene Kelly in Singin’ in the Rain, Mary Poppins, Mr. Bean, Paddington, and DC Super-Heroes Batman and Wonder Woman.
Mark Williams, Deputy Chief Executive at the Heart of London Business Alliance, remarked: “It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to add to our trail the contributions of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, who are such titans of international cinema.”
“Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge is one of the most successful and significant Bollywood films ever, and we’re thrilled to bring to the trail the first film that prominently features Leicester Square. The statue will celebrate Bollywood's global reach and London's vibrant diversity, undoubtedly attracting fans from around the world to Leicester Square, the heart of film and entertainment.”
Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, noted: “Upon its release 30 years ago, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge marked a pivotal moment for Indian cinema, transforming the industry and winning the hearts of audiences worldwide. We are excited to be the first Indian film represented in ‘Scenes in the Square’.”
“This also commemorates 30 years of DDLJ, a film that has spread love and joy globally, reflecting its cultural impact in the UK.”
“We are honored that our superstars and our film are being acknowledged on the global stage alongside Hollywood legends, from Gene Kelly to Laurel & Hardy to Harry Potter.
