In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveiled a permanent tribute to their most iconic film, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), at London's iconic Leicester Square. The life-size bronze statue of their beloved characters, Raj and Simran, was inaugurated on December 4, 2025, marking the film's glorious 30th anniversary.
A Surreal Ceremony in the Rain
The unveiling ceremony was nothing short of cinematic, taking place amid pouring rain. This mirrored Shah Rukh Khan's iconic entry in the film, a coincidence both stars noted with awe. Speaking to BBC Asian Network after the event, Shah Rukh Khan, with his trademark wit, described their enduring partnership, saying they were "like a bad habit you can't get away from."
When reminded of his past description of DDLJ as "dal chawal" for being a staple of Indian culture, he agreed. However, Kajol promptly intervened, requesting a more exciting name. The host suggested "biryani," to which SRK nodded, calling it a "good biryani," and Kajol instantly agreed, settling the delicious debate.
Emotional Reflections and Divine Coincidences
The emotional resonance of the moment was amplified by a touching family coincidence. Kajol revealed that her children, Nysa and Yug Devgn, were dressed in outfits strikingly similar to the film's characters. "It's so strange that her son (Yug) is wearing a leather jacket, her daughter (Nysa) is dressed in a salwar kameez," Shah Rukh observed. A surprised Kajol added, "In a white salwar kameez! I know it was not planned; it just happened to be."
When asked what felt more fulfilling—the statue or seeing his son Aryan Khan pay homage to DDLJ's famous "palat" moment in his debut show—SRK humbly credited the film's entire team. "I think all of it... I can't take the credit for all of it. The film that got created by Adi (Aditya Chopra) and all of us... there is a sense of achievement, a sense of gratefulness," he reflected.
A Milestone Year for Iconic Classics
The year 2025 is significant for two pillars of Hindi cinema. While DDLJ celebrates its 30th anniversary, the legendary Sholay completes 50 years. Coincidentally, Sholay is also gearing up for a nationwide re-release in a restored 4K version. The DDLJ statue is a historic first, making it the first Indian film to be honoured in the Scenes in the Square trail at Leicester Square.
Expressing his joy, Shah Rukh Khan posted on X, "Thrilled to unveil the bronze statue of Raj & Simran... celebrating 30 years of DDLJ!" He invited fans to visit and create new memories with the immortal characters.
However, the celebrations are tinged with a bittersweet chapter from the past. Screenwriter Honey Irani, who reportedly co-wrote the film with Aditya Chopra, was denied a writing credit. Her son, Farhan Akhtar, recently acknowledged the past hurt but stated the family has moved on, emphasizing the deep bonds they shared with the Chopra family.
As the statue finds its home in London and DDLJ continues its record-breaking run at Mumbai's Maratha Mandir cinema, the legacy of Raj and Simran proves to be far more than just dal chawal—it is, indeed, a rich and enduring biryani for millions of fans worldwide.
