Mumbai, Dec 4 (NationPress) In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Yash Raj Films’ iconic blockbuster Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol revealed a stunning bronze statue in Leicester Square, commemorating their legendary roles in this cherished film by Aditya Chopra.

The statue honors the central characters Raj and Simran in a memorable pose, reflecting the film’s profound influence on popular culture among South Asians globally.

This bronze statue stands as the first Indian film tribute in Leicester Square, London, joining the ranks of iconic characters from classic films like Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, Paddington, and Singin' in the Rain, alongside superheroes such as Batman and Wonder Woman. During the unveiling, Shah Rukh Khan remarked, “DDLJ was crafted with pure intentions. We aimed to narrate a tale of love that transcends boundaries, and I believe this is why DDLJ has left a lasting imprint for over 30 years! For me, DDLJ is integral to my identity, and it’s humbling to witness the continued affection for the film and for Kajol and myself since its debut.”

“I express my gratitude to the people of the United Kingdom and the Heart of London Business Alliance for honoring DDLJ with such a remarkable gesture. To see DDLJ as the first Indian film celebrated in the iconic Scenes in the Square project is an emotional experience, rekindling many memories. I feel immense pride knowing the film has been embraced worldwide, and I wish to share this moment with the entire cast and crew of DDLJ, my friend and director Aditya Chopra, and the Yash Raj Films family. This is a moment I will cherish forever!”

Kajol shared her thoughts on this recognition, stating, “It’s remarkable to witness Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge continue to be cherished even after three decades. The unveiling of the statue in London felt like revisiting a piece of our history – a narrative that has truly resonated through generations. Being placed in Leicester Square, a location of great significance to DDLJ, amplifies the specialness of this occasion.

“For the film to receive this kind of recognition in the UK – as the first Indian film to be honored in this manner – is something that will forever hold a place in the hearts of DDLJ fans worldwide. I am grateful to everyone who keeps our film alive in their hearts for all these years,” she added. The event was attended by both Bollywood stars, along with Yash Raj Film’s CEO Akshaye Widhani and Heart of London Business Alliance’s Chief Executive Ros Morgan.

Widhani commented, “As an Indian studio dedicated to sharing heartwarming Indian stories globally for over 50 years, seeing DDLJ honored in the United Kingdom on its 30th anniversary is a significant moment of pride for us. Being the first Indian film to be immortalized as a statue at a historic site like Leicester Square is genuinely humbling. To be recognized alongside Hollywood icons like Mary Poppins, Gene Kelly, and Harry Potter underscores DDLJ’s cultural impact worldwide, including in the UK. This tribute will inspire us in our creative endeavors, and we aspire to continue captivating audiences globally with inspiring narratives from our remarkable country.”

For those unfamiliar, DDLJ narrates the love story of Raj and Simran, two non-resident Indians who fall in love during their travels across Europe and India, starting their journey from King’s Cross station. The location is particularly fitting, as Leicester Square features in a scene where Raj and Simran first cross paths, albeit unknowingly, before embarking on their European adventure.

This pivotal scene showcases two cinemas in the square, with Raj positioned in front of the Vue cinema and Simran passing by the Odeon Leicester Square. Upon its release in 1995, DDLJ rapidly evolved into a global sensation and a defining cultural touchstone for South Asian communities worldwide.

The statue is a part of the celebrations marking the film’s 30th anniversary, which continues its record-breaking cinema run in India today. Since its debut, DDLJ has established itself as the longest-running film in Hindi cinema history, with even President Obama referencing DDLJ during an official visit to India.

The film’s legacy in the UK also endures, with a new stage adaptation, Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical, which was showcased in Manchester earlier this year.

–IANS