London’s Leicester Square shimmered with nostalgia and excitement on December 6, 2025, as Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol made a triumphant return to the city that helped cement their legendary status. The occasion? The 30th anniversary of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), the film that not only defined a generation of romance but also catapulted Indian cinema onto the global stage. The duo unveiled a striking bronze statue of their iconic characters, Raj and Simran, at the Scenes in the Square trail—an event that marked the very first Bollywood tribute to grace this world-famous cinema landmark.
Fans, families, and film lovers from across the UK and beyond gathered in droves, their faces alight with anticipation and emotion. For many in the Indian diaspora, this wasn’t just about a movie or two beloved actors. It was a celebration of identity, memory, and the enduring magic of Bollywood’s biggest love story. As NDTV reported, the event became a meeting ground for generations, all drawn together by the cross-continental charm of DDLJ and the irresistible charisma of Shah Rukh Khan—affectionately known as SRK.
The statue unveiling was more than a nod to nostalgia. It was a powerful testament to the global influence of Bollywood and the unique place DDLJ holds in the hearts of millions. According to NDTV, the bronze sculpture of Raj and Simran is the first Bollywood tribute ever installed at Leicester Square—a locale already home to statues of cinematic icons like Mary Poppins and Harry Potter. For fans, seeing SRK and Kajol immortalized in bronze was both surreal and deeply moving. "It’s like our memories have found a home in London," one fan remarked, echoing the sentiments of many present that day.
But the celebrations didn’t stop at reminiscing. During the event, Shah Rukh Khan spoke candidly about his career and the swirling rumors that have followed him in recent months. With Daniel Craig’s tenure as James Bond officially concluded after No Time To Die, speculation has been rampant about who might step into the legendary spy’s shoes. Names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Callum Turner have been tossed around, but some fans have taken their dreams further—imagining SRK himself as the next 007.
When pressed about the possibility, Khan responded with his trademark wit and humility. "No, I don’t have the accent. I don’t like shaken martini," he quipped, referencing Bond’s signature drink, as reported by NDTV. He continued, "I haven’t done too many action films, actually. I was always wanting to do an action film, but then Kajol was in my life, and you can’t do action films when Kajol is acting opposite you. So I did all the romantic films!"
Kajol, ever the lively counterpart, playfully reminded Khan that his filmography extends well beyond their celebrated collaborations. He conceded with a smile, "Yeah, but the ones we are known for are the ones we have done together. We can’t deny that. So, I just did a few action films because I always felt I could. I did it a little late in the day. I think I enjoyed it. I don’t know James Bond, but Sean Connery for sure, yeah!"
It’s a sentiment that resonates with fans who have watched Khan’s career evolve over the decades. While he’s best known for his romantic roles—thanks in no small part to the chemistry he shares with Kajol—SRK has dabbled in action, most recently in the blockbuster Jawan. That performance didn’t just thrill audiences; it earned him the prestigious National Award for Best Actor, a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal.
Yet, as the world speculates about the next James Bond, official word remains elusive. Daniel Craig’s final bow in No Time to Die closed a celebrated chapter, but producers have kept tight-lipped about his successor. What is known, according to industry sources cited by NDTV, is that the next Bond film is expected to be helmed by Denis Villeneuve, the visionary director behind Dune. Whoever steps into the role will inherit a legacy shaped by legends—Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and, of course, Daniel Craig.
For Shah Rukh Khan, the future is already mapped with new adventures. His last theatrical release, Dunki, was met with critical and commercial acclaim, further cementing his status as one of cinema’s most bankable stars. And there’s more on the horizon. Khan is set to headline King, a film that will also feature his daughter Suhana Khan—a much-anticipated collaboration planned for release in 2026. The project has generated considerable buzz, with fans eager to see the dynamic between father and daughter unfold on the big screen.
Back in Leicester Square, the unveiling of the Raj and Simran statue was a moment steeped in emotion and significance. For the Indian diaspora in the UK, it was a validation of their cultural heritage—a reminder that their stories, dreams, and icons have a place in the global narrative of cinema. As NDTV’s Radhika Iyer observed, the event was not just about looking back but also about celebrating the enduring power of storytelling to bridge continents and generations.
What is it about DDLJ that continues to capture imaginations, even three decades on? For many, it’s the universality of its themes—love, longing, and the courage to follow one’s heart. For others, it’s the infectious charm of SRK and Kajol, whose on-screen partnership remains the gold standard for romantic duos. And for a new generation discovering the film on streaming platforms, it’s proof that some stories truly are timeless.
As the sun set on Leicester Square, fans lingered by the statue, snapping photos and sharing memories. For a moment, the hustle and bustle of London faded, replaced by the strains of Bollywood music and the laughter of families united by a shared love for cinema. In that space, the legacy of DDLJ—and the enduring appeal of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol—felt more alive than ever.
In a world that often feels divided, the celebration in London was a gentle reminder of cinema’s power to connect, inspire, and transcend borders. With new projects on the horizon and a legacy that shows no signs of fading, Shah Rukh Khan continues to prove that some stars truly are forever.
