Tag: London

Entertainment

Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol Unveil Raj–Simran Statue at London’s Leicester Square, Marking 30 Years of DDLJ

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In a monumental moment for Indian cinema, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveiled a life-sized bronze statue of their iconic characters, Raj and Simran, at London’s legendary Leicester Square. The statue marks the 30th anniversary of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), one of the most beloved and longest-running films in Indian cinematic history.

This installation is part of the prestigious Scenes in the Square trail — a tribute to characters and scenes that have shaped global pop culture. DDLJ is now the first Indian film ever to receive this rare honour, standing alongside legendary Hollywood icons who have been celebrated in the same space.

At the unveiling ceremony, the atmosphere was electric as fans gathered to witness history in the making. Shah Rukh Khan expressed his gratitude, saying that such recognition in the heart of London is a testament to how deeply DDLJ resonates even after three decades. Kajol, too, shared her excitement, celebrating the nostalgia and timeless charm of the film.

SRK shared an emotional note:
“Bade bade deshon mein, aisi chhoti chhoti baatein hoti rehti hain, Senorita! Thrilled to unveil the statue of Raj & Simran celebrating 30 years of DDLJ. DDLJ is the first Indian film to be honoured on the Scenes in the Square trail. Thank you to everyone in the UK for making this possible. Come meet Raj & Simran when you’re in London — we’d love to see you make more memories with DDLJ.”

The statue will now be a permanent cultural landmark, inviting fans from across the world to relive the magic of Raj and Simran every time they visit London.

Films

Raj Kundra Reveals Shilpa Shetty’s Only Marriage Condition

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Mumbai, August 18: Businessman Raj Kundra has opened up about a life-changing decision he made to marry Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty.

Kundra revealed that Shilpa had one clear, non-negotiable condition before marriage — she would never leave India.

“She said it clear-cut: I’m not marrying any foreigner, any NRI. I have to stay in India, I can’t leave,” Kundra shared.

Born and brought up in London, Raj later moved to Dubai in 2007. Shilpa, who was introduced to Raj through a mutual friend in the UK, stood firm on her decision to remain in India. Respecting her stance, Kundra relocated to Mumbai, ensuring their marriage could move forward without compromise.

The revelation sheds light on the couple’s deep commitment and the sacrifices often made in the name of love. Today, Shilpa and Raj remain one of Bollywood’s most talked-about couples, admired for balancing their professional success with family life.

Spotlight

Goan Community Mourns the Loss of Alvaro Collaço

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The Goan community in the UK came together to pay their respects to Alvaro Collaço, former chairman of the Goan Overseas Association (GOA) UK, who passed away on December 31, 2024. A memorial service was held at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in South London, attended by relatives, friends, and community members.


Alvaro Collaço was a dedicated servant of the Goan community in the UK. Born in Jinja, Uganda, he studied in Goa and Poona before returning to Entebbe, Uganda, where he served in the government ministries for over 19 years. After moving to the UK in 1973, he worked as Company Secretary for the Technical Education and Training Organisation for Overseas Countries (TETOC) and later retired as Assistant Director of the British Council’s Educational Contracts Department.


Alvaro played an active role in the G.O.A. (UK) for many years, serving as Chairman of their Council of Management from 1983 to 1986. He was instrumental in acquiring the G.O.A. (UK) clubhouse in Beckenham and setting up the former Standing Conference of Goan Organisations (SCOGO), now known as the GOAN festival. He also served as Governor of the St Francis Xavier 6th Form College in Clapham.


Mervyn Maciel, a 95-year-old former Senior Civil Servant, remembered Alvaro with great affection, saying, “He had nothing but Goan blood flowing through his veins. He was passionate about doing things with the uplift of the community in mind.” Watford Borough Councillor Rabi Martins described Alvaro as “a gentle giant with wisdom, foresight, and determination.”


Alvaro Collaço’s legacy will live on through the Goan Association UK, which he helped shape and grow. His commitment to the community and his tireless efforts to promote Goan culture and heritage will be deeply missed. The Goan community in the UK will continue to celebrate his life and legacy, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.