Back in the 1930s, when even simple romantic gestures were rare in Indian films, Devika Rani, the country’s first female superstar, pushed boundaries with a bold on-screen kiss. In the 1933 movie Karma, she shared a four-minute-long lip-lock with her co-star and real-life husband Himanshu Rai. This groundbreaking kiss remains the longest ever recorded in Indian cinema, and no film since has surpassed its duration.
At a time when Indian society was more conservative and actors shied away from intimate scenes, this kiss created quite a stir, sparking debates and controversies. Despite this, Devika Rani’s courage paved the way for more open portrayals of romance in Indian films.
The Scene That Shocked Audiences
The controversial scene from Karma wasn’t a typical romantic moment. In the movie, Devika Rani’s character kisses an unconscious Himanshu Rai in an attempt to revive him. Although it was a creative and non-sexualized scene, it shook the traditional Indian audiences of the 1930s.
At that time, many actors hesitated to even kiss on screen, let alone engage in such a lengthy one. Devika Rani’s decision to take part in the scene demonstrated her bold approach to acting. Her husband, Himanshu Rai, who was also the film’s director, had no objection to the kiss, as they were married in real life.
Public Backlash and Calls to Ban the Film
While the kiss was groundbreaking for Indian cinema, it wasn’t without its backlash. Many people protested the scene, and there were even calls to ban the film due to the kiss. This controversy overshadowed the rest of the movie, but it also placed Devika Rani firmly in the spotlight, establishing her as a leading actress.
Despite the uproar, Karma made its mark in cinematic history. While the film didn’t perform well in India, it had a successful premiere in England, marking the beginning of Devika Rani’s long and illustrious career in Bollywood.
Devika Rani: More Than Just a Bold Actress
Devika Rani was more than just the actress known for breaking taboos. Born into a wealthy family, she spent her early years in England, attending boarding school from the age of nine. In 1928, she met film producer Himanshu Rai, and they married soon after.
Together, they founded Bombay Talkies, a legendary film studio that launched the careers of many iconic actors, including Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, and Madhubala. Devika Rani’s contribution to Indian cinema extended far beyond her bold kiss in Karma—she was a trailblazer who helped shape Bollywood’s golden era.
With her remarkable career and fearless attitude, Devika Rani left an indelible mark on Indian cinema that resonates even today.
