Shah Rukh Khan Reveals ‘Devdas’ Rights Acquisition at Locarno Screening

As a long-time admirer and follower of Bollywood, I can confidently say that Shah Rukh Khan‘s announcement about acquiring the rights to “Devdas” has filled me with immense nostalgia and excitement. Having grown up watching this tragic love story unfold on the silver screen multiple times, I’ve always held a soft spot for the 2002 adaptation.


It was announced that Shah Rukh Khan’s production company, Red Chillies Entertainment, has obtained the rights to the 2002 movie “Devdas,” a film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali where Khan also acted. This film had been showcased at the Cannes Film Festival.

At the Locarno Film Festival, Khan attended to receive an award honoring his career accomplishments and conduct a workshop. He shared this news during a unique showing of the movie. “I’m thrilled to announce that as a production company, we have repurchased the rights to this film,” Khan told the crowd before the screening began, adding, “I’m incredibly proud that it is now part of our company.”

2002 marked yet another screen portrayal of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s 1917 novel, which has a history of numerous film adaptations. Khan himself acknowledged this extensive cinematic legacy by stating, “I believe around 18 or 20 films have been made based on this same novel, along with countless other plays and songs.”

As I sit down to pen my thoughts on this captivating cinematic masterpiece, allow me to share the narrative that unfolds before my eyes – a tale that revolves around Devdas Mukherjee, a prosperous young man who graces our screens fresh from his law studies in London. His heart yearns for Paro, a cherished childhood companion, whom he envisions as his bride. However, the rigid boundaries of society and his own family’s prejudices thwart their union, leaving Devdas to drown in the depths of despair and succumb to the temptations of alcohol.

Of all the adaptations, the 1955 version directed by Bimal Roy and featuring Dilip Kumar is notably impactful. Khan acknowledged this timeless masterpiece, stating, “I watched it with my parents as they were avid fans of Mr. Dilip Kumar, and it was said to be his most extraordinary performance.”

In 2002, when Sanjay Leela Bhansali chose to remake Devdas, there was some doubt. As Shah Rukh Khan recollected, “By then, I believe Mr. Bhansali wanted to create this movie, but many in the country felt it seemed a bit outdated.” India was becoming more liberalized, and people were seeking lighter entertainment, like action-packed or college-themed films.

Actor Shah Rukh Khan discussed the elaborate set design and clothing choices in the film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, which posed technical hurdles. “I had never worked on a film with such intricate Indian costumes before,” Khan remarked, explaining the challenges of the historically accurate attire. “Walking was tough and I almost fell several times. It required tying it regularly, and even a specialist was needed to help me tie it when it kept coming loose between shots,” Khan explained, referring to the dhoti he wore around his waist that resembled a sarong. “Eventually, I added a zipper, which is considered sacrilege, but… I was constantly anxious that it would come undone during the scene,” Khan added.

Khan attributes the movie’s triumph to Bhansali’s creative vision, as well as the exceptional performances of Aishwarya Rai (as Paro) and Madhuri Dixit (as Chandramukhi). He also lauds his co-star Jackie Shroff for his portrayal of Chunilal. Furthermore, he acknowledges the film’s impressive technical feats, sharing that at one point during filming, there were no functioning generators left in all of Mumbai city due to the demanding lighting needs.

As a proud cinephile, I had the honor to witness “Devdas” soar to global acclaim. It graced the screens at Cannes, earned a BAFTA nomination, and Khan himself hailed it as a contemporary masterpiece that embodies the majesty of Indian cinema – a true testament to our rich cinematic history.

As a devoted cinephile, I must confess that Bollywood indeed sets Indian cinema apart with its grandeur, enchanting aesthetics, and larger-than-life storytelling. It’s a world filled with drama, captivating dialogues, and melodious music. Not to mention, some of the most breathtaking dance sequences I’ve ever witnessed, truly unparalleled in their beauty.

The performer gratefully acknowledged the ongoing fascination with the movie, over twenty years since its debut. “I believe that the selection for Locarno is among the kindest films they’ve chosen during my acting career; it’s one of my most cherished movies I’ve ever made,” Khan stated.

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2024-08-12 17:17