‘DDLJ’ becomes first Indian film honoured with statue in London’s Leicester Square
A statue celebrating the iconic Bollywood film ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ (DDLJ) will join Leicester Square’s ‘Scenes in the Square’ movie trail, marking the first time Indian cinema is recognised in this way in London.
Announced by the Heart of London Business Alliance, the bronze sculpture of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in a classic pose from the film will be installed this spring outside the Odeon cinema. The unveiling will coincide with the 30th anniversary of the film, directed by Aditya Chopra.
‘DDLJ’ follows a love story between two non-resident Indians and features several London locations, including a scene set in Leicester Square itself.
The statue will join ten other cinematic icons such as Harry Potter, Paddington, and Mary Poppins, recognising the film’s enduring legacy and connection to global audiences, especially the British South Asian community.
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Mark Williams, Deputy Chief Executive at Heart of London Business Alliance, says: “It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to add to our trail Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, who are such titans of international cinema. ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ is one of the most successful and important Bollywood films of all time, and we’re excited by the prospect of bringing to the trail the first film that actually features Leicester Square as a location. 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.”
Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, added: “When ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ (DDLJ) was released 30 years ago, the film became a defining moment for Indian cinema and changed the face of the industry, capturing the hearts of everyone who saw it all over the globe. 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 UK. We are honoured that our superstars and our film are being recognized on the world stage alongside the Hollywood elite, from Gene Kelly to Laurel & Hardy to Harry Potter. This statue will be a great way to express the international appeal of Indian movies and build bridges amongst communities through cinema.”
