In October, Aditya Chopra’s cult classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) completed 30 years, marking three decades of an era-defining love story that continues to shape Indian pop culture. While Mumbai’s Maratha Mandir has famously kept the celebration alive by screening the film every single day since its release on October 20, 1995, this year, the tribute went global.

For the first time in history, an Indian film has been honoured with a life-size bronze statue of its lead characters. The Raj-Simran statue was unveiled at London’s iconic Leicester Square, with Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol personally flying in for the ceremony. Photos and videos of the event quickly went viral, capturing the actors standing before their bronze likeness in the film’s signature pose.

Kajol arrived draped in a striking ocean blue saree, while Shah Rukh Khan opted for a classic black suit.

Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveil DDLJ statue in London Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveil DDLJ statue in London.
Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveil DDLJ statue in London Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveil DDLJ statue in London.

Reflecting on the film’s milestone, Shah Rukh Khan shared in a statement: “It doesn’t feel like it’s been 30 years since Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge released. It feels like it happened yesterday because bade bade deshon mein aisi choti choti baatein hoti rehti hain… but it still feels unbelievable. I’m truly grateful for all the love… nobody could have foreseen the place the film made in the hearts of people around the world.”

Released in 1995, DDLJ earned Rs 102.5 crore, making it the highest-grossing Indian film of the year. Over time, it transcended the status of a hit to become one of the most successful and enduring Indian films in history.

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The film’s global influence has been acknowledged in several prestigious compilations: It is one of only three Hindi films included in 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die. It ranks twelfth on the British Film Institute’s list of Top Indian Films of All Time. And in 2012, it was featured in the BFI Sight & Sound list of the 1,000 greatest films ever made, chosen by critics Rachel Dwyer and Sanam Hasan.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge marked Aditya Chopra’s directorial debut. He spent three years developing the script before presenting it to his father, Yash Chopra. While his parents immediately saw potential, many colleagues were skeptical of his unconventional take on romance. Undeterred, Aditya remained committed to his vision, insisting on complete creative control.

The result? A film that redefined the Bollywood love story, shaped an entire generation’s idea of romance, and became an international cultural touchstone.