The Timeless Tale of Devdas: A Look Back at Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s 2002 Magnum Opus

The year was 2002, and the Indian film industry was about to witness a cinematic masterpiece that would leave an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences. Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas, a period romantic drama, was a film that would not only become a cult classic but also a landmark in the careers of its lead actors, Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Madhuri Dixit. The movie’s grandeur, opulence, and poignant storytelling continue to enthrall viewers to this day, making it a fan favorite that transcends generations.

A Masterclass in Production Design, Costume Design, and Choreography

One of the key aspects that set Devdas apart from other films of its time was its impeccable production design, costume design, and choreography. The film’s creators spared no detail in crafting a visual masterpiece that would transport audiences to a bygone era. The costumes, in particular, were a work of art, with Neeta Lulla, Abu Jani, Reza Shariffi, and Sandeep Khosla working their magic to create a wardrobe that was both regal and understated. The film’s choreography, too, was widely praised, with each dance sequence meticulously crafted to evoke the perfect blend of emotions.

The Making of an Iconic Look: Aishwarya Rai’s Climax Scene

In a recent interview with News18, Neeta Lulla recalled the challenges she faced while working on the film, particularly when it came to creating Aishwarya Rai’s iconic look for the climax scene. With only a day to spare, Neeta was tasked with sourcing a long saree for the actress, a feat that seemed impossible given the short timeframe. However, Neeta’s dedication and creativity ultimately paid off, as she managed to create a stunning ensemble that would become one of the most memorable moments in the film.

"I had only overnight to create that look," Neeta revealed. "The whole film featured saris that were 12–14 metres long. I had cut up two or three saris to create the entire ensemble. For the final scene, Sanjay felt he needed a cotton (Durga) Puja saree." Neeta’s team worked tirelessly to bring the vision to life, with the embroiderers working through the night to create the perfect borders and details.

A Film that Made History

Devdas was not just a film; it was an event that made history. With a star-studded cast, including Jackie Shroff, Kirron Kher, Smita Jaykar, Manoj Joshi, and Ananya Khare, the movie was a grand spectacle that captivated audiences and critics alike. The film’s cinematography, handled by Binod Pradhan, was breathtaking, with each frame meticulously crafted to evoke the perfect mood. The editing, done by Bela Sehgal, was seamless, while the songs, composed by Ismail Darbar, and the background score, created by Monty Sharma, added depth and emotion to the narrative.

A Legacy that Continues to Inspire

Devdas may have released over two decades ago, but its impact on Indian cinema continues to be felt. The film’s influence can be seen in many subsequent productions, with its grandeur, opulence, and poignant storytelling inspiring a new generation of filmmakers. As we look back at this timeless tale, we are reminded of the power of cinema to transport us to a different era, to evoke emotions, and to leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

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Conclusion

Devdas is a film that continues to enchant audiences with its timeless tale of love, loss, and longing. With its impeccable production design, costume design, and choreography, the movie is a masterclass in storytelling. As we look back at this cinematic masterpiece, we are reminded of the power of cinema to transport us to a different era, to evoke emotions, and to leave an indelible mark on our hearts. So, if you haven’t already, experience the magic of Devdas for yourself, and discover why it remains one of the most beloved films of all time.

Content originally published by indianexpress.com