In a momentous occasion that celebrates his global stardom and the increasing influence of South Indian cinema, megastar Ram Charan has been immortalized in wax at the prestigious Madame Tussauds. The unveiling ceremony, held in London, was a family affair, attended by his parents, legendary actor Chiranjeevi and Surekha, his wife Upasana Konidela, and their adorable daughter, Klin Kaara.
Ram Charan’s wax figure is a unique addition to the Madame Tussauds collection as it also features his beloved pet dog, Rhyme, making him only the second celebrity after Queen Elizabeth II to be represented alongside their pet. This heartwarming inclusion underscores the deep bond the actor shares with his furry companion.
The statue showcases Ram Charan in the elegant black velvet bandhgala he donned at the 2023 Academy Awards, a significant moment when the song “Naatu Naatu” from his film RRR made history as the first Indian song to win an Oscar in the Best Original Song category. The attire perfectly blends Indian tradition with red-carpet sophistication, featuring a high collar and intricate gold accents.
Speaking at the unveiling, Ram Charan expressed his astonishment at the lifelike representation. “When I saw the figure for the first time, I was absolutely stunned. The likeness is unbelievable—from the expression to the stance to the exact detail of Rhyme by my side. It’s like looking in a mirror, and I’m so thrilled that fans around the world will get to experience me up close.”
The creation of the wax figure was a meticulous process, taking several months to capture every nuance of Ram Charan and Rhyme. Principal Sculptor at Merlin Magic Making, Jim Kempton, highlighted the special nature of the project, stating, “What made this project so special was the chance to capture not just a global film icon, but the deep connection he shares with his dog, Rhyme. We worked closely with Ram to ensure every detail—from his posture and smile to Rhyme’s alert gaze—was perfect. This figure is a celebration of both his star power and his warmth as a person.”
Andre Timmins, Co-Founder of IIFA, emphasized the significance of this unveiling for Indian cinema on the global stage. “This unveiling of Ram Charan’s figure, a global superstar whose roots in South Indian cinema have redefined international perceptions, is a milestone moment that reflects the growing influence of regional cinema alongside Bollywood. As we continue to amplify Indian film through IIFA and IIFA Utsavam, it is heartening to see the world embrace our stars, stories, and artistry.”
While the unveiling took place in London, the wax figure will soon find its permanent home at Madame Tussauds Singapore from May 20th, 2025 onwards. This will offer fans in Southeast Asia a unique opportunity to get up close with the celebrated actor and his cherished pet.
The inclusion of Ram Charan in Madame Tussauds further solidifies his position as a global icon and highlights the increasing global recognition of talent from the Indian film industry. His wax figure will stand alongside other Indian luminaries, celebrating the rich and diverse world of Indian cinema.