Thirty years ago, a love story captured the imagination of millions and forever changed the landscape of Indian cinema. Now, in a moment that blends nostalgia and global recognition, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol—the beloved stars of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge—have reunited in London to unveil a tribute unlike any other: a life-size bronze statue of their iconic characters, Raj and Simran, at Leicester Square. This event, held on December 4, 2025, is more than a simple commemoration; it marks the first time an Indian movie has been honored with a statue at this famed London landmark, according to reporting from multiple outlets.
For fans of Bollywood and lovers of cinema worldwide, the unveiling was a poignant reminder of the enduring power of storytelling. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, released in October 1995 and directed by Aditya Chopra, didn’t just introduce Raj and Simran—it introduced an entire generation to a new vision of romance, one that crossed borders and defied cultural expectations. The film became a cult classic, its songs and scenes etched in the memories of audiences from Mumbai to Manchester.
Standing together at Leicester Square, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol radiated the same chemistry that made their on-screen pairing legendary. Their presence at the unveiling was a fitting tribute to a film that continues to transcend generations. For many, this statue is more than bronze and artistry—it’s a symbol of how Indian cinema has become a global force, shaping hearts and minds far beyond the subcontinent.
The statue’s placement at Leicester Square is significant. This bustling urban hub is home to monuments honoring some of the most influential figures in film history, from Charlie Chaplin to Mary Poppins. Now, Raj and Simran stand proudly among them, the first Indian characters to be immortalized in such a way. It’s a testament to the global reach of Bollywood and the universal themes of love, hope, and family that Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge so effortlessly wove together.
But the celebration of Shah Rukh Khan doesn’t end with statues and silver screens. Just days after the unveiling, his name appeared on another prestigious list—this time, not for acting, but for style. On December 9, 2025, The New York Times included Shah Rukh Khan among its “67 Most Stylish People of 2025,” an honor reserved for those who have shaped fashion and culture over the past year. For SRK, as he’s affectionately known, it’s another feather in a cap already brimming with accolades.
What sealed his place on this list? According to The New York Times, it was his unforgettable debut at the Met Gala earlier in 2025. Walking the world’s most glamorous red carpet for the first time, Shah Rukh Khan wore a custom, all-black ensemble by renowned designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. The look was sleek, powerful, and timeless—balancing refinement with just a hint of drama. But what really caught everyone’s eye was a crystal-studded pendant shaped like the letter ‘K,’ layered among elegant necklaces. As The New York Times described, “He wore a design by Sabyasachi Mukherjee… subtle confidence with a touch of personal magic.”
SRK’s approach to fashion is as deliberate as his approach to acting. He doesn’t dress to stand out for the sake of attention; instead, he uses clothing to tell a story, much like the characters he brings to life on screen. Whether donning traditional Indian silhouettes, sharp luxury tailoring, or modern glam, he consistently brings authenticity and a sense of narrative to every look. It’s this ability to reinvent himself—on and off the screen—that keeps him at the forefront of both cinema and style.
The New York Times list is a who’s who of global culture, featuring music icons like ASAP Rocky, Kendrick Lamar, and Doechii; Hollywood stars Jennifer Lawrence and Sabrina Carpenter; sports and pop culture luminaries such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Carlos Alcaraz, and Shohei Ohtani; and even unexpected figures like Diana Ross and Pope Leo XIV. Yet, right there among the world’s most daring and creative, stands Shah Rukh Khan—a testament to his cross-cultural appeal and enduring influence.
Despite this growing recognition from the fashion world, SRK remains grounded in his first love: cinema. As The New York Times notes, “Fashion houses continue to swoon over him, SRK remains focused on what he loves most—cinema.” Fans can look forward to seeing him soon in the much-anticipated film King, where he’ll star alongside Suhana Khan and Deepika Padukone. The project, directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures, promises to bring together some of the biggest names in Bollywood for a cinematic experience that’s sure to make waves.
For Shah Rukh Khan, 2025 has been a year of milestones. The unveiling of the Raj and Simran statue at Leicester Square isn’t just a personal achievement; it’s a victory for Indian cinema on the world stage. It signals a growing recognition of Bollywood’s artistic contributions and its ability to connect with audiences across continents. Meanwhile, his inclusion in The New York Times list of style icons demonstrates how his influence continues to stretch far beyond the confines of film, shaping trends and inspiring fans in ways both subtle and profound.
It’s easy to see why Shah Rukh Khan remains such a beloved figure. His career is a masterclass in reinvention and resilience, marked by a willingness to embrace new challenges and a refusal to rest on past laurels. Whether he’s playing a star-crossed lover, dazzling on the red carpet, or lending his likeness to a statue in the heart of London, SRK brings a sense of joy and authenticity that resonates with people everywhere.
As the world witnesses these celebrations—statues unveiled, lists published, movies announced—it’s clear that Shah Rukh Khan’s legacy is still being written. He stands at the intersection of art, style, and culture, a bridge between East and West, past and future. For fans old and new, that’s something worth celebrating.
