In 2002, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Devdas was released, becoming an iconic piece of Indian cinema. However, Shah Rukh Khan, who played the title role, recently revealed that he was initially hesitant to take on the character of Devdas, a “loser and drunkard,” as he believed it did not align with his image.
During a Q&A session at the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, where Shah Rukh Khan was honored with the prestigious ‘Pardo alla Carriera Award – Locarno Tourism,’ he shared insights into his journey with the film Devdas. The film, based on Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s 1917 novel, has been adapted multiple times in Indian cinema, with earlier versions featuring legends like K.L. Saigal in 1936 and Dilip Kumar in 1955.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Initial Reluctance
Shah Rukh Khan confessed that he initially did not see himself as Devdas. He recalled watching the 1955 version of Devdas with his mother and being unable to relate to the character. “He’s a guy who drinks, isn’t committed to a girl, and leaves her,” Khan noted, explaining why the role initially didn’t appeal to him.
When Sanjay Leela Bhansali first approached him for the role, Shah Rukh hesitated. “I said, no, he is a failure, a drunkard, my image is not like playing the role of Devdas,” Khan remembered telling Bhansali. However, the filmmaker was adamant, stating that he would only make the film if Shah Rukh Khan agreed to play the role, because, as Bhansali put it, “your eyes are like Devdas.”
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Convincing Words
Despite Shah Rukh Khan’s reluctance, Bhansali’s determination and faith in him were unwavering. The filmmaker waited an entire year, refusing to cast anyone else in the role. Eventually, Shah Rukh Khan agreed, saying, “Okay, if you cannot get eyes like mine, then I will do the film.” This decision led to one of the most memorable performances of his career.
Reflecting on the experience, Shah Rukh described it as one of the most wonderful moments in his life. He also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who played Paro, Madhuri Dixit Nene as Chandramukhi, and Jackie Shroff as Chunni Babu. Shah Rukh Khan also praised Bhansali, calling him “one of the most talented filmmakers of our times.”
The Legacy of Devdas
Devdas remains one of the most popular stories in Indian literature and cinema. Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of the tragic character has become iconic, earning him immense praise and adding a significant chapter to his illustrious career. The film’s grand visuals, powerful performances, and Bhansali’s direction made it a classic, cementing its place in Bollywood history.
As Shah Rukh Khan continues to receive accolades for his work, including the recent honor at the Locarno Film Festival, his journey with Devdas stands out as a testament to his versatility as an actor and his ability to take on challenging roles that push the boundaries of his image.
