Anurag Kashyap's groundbreaking film, Dev D, a cinematic landmark that predates his acclaimed "Gangs Of Wasseypur," is set to make a triumphant return to select cinemas on April 24. After 17 years since its original release, this cult classic will once again grace the big screen, offering both long-time fans and a new generation an opportunity to experience its unique narrative and musical brilliance.
The Highly Anticipated Re-release This contemporary reimagining of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel "Devdas" will be available in limited theatres. Director Anurag Kashyap shared his enthusiasm for the re-release, emphasizing the film's communal experience: “To see Dev D return to the big screen feels special. It’s a film meant to be experienced collectively with Amit Trivedi’s music and Rajeev Ravi’s cinematography powering the narrative. I am curious to see how the new generation responds to it.”
Insights from the Stars The film’s principal cast reflected on their journey with "Dev D":
• Kalki Koechlin's Debut Experience: Kalki, who made her acting debut with the film, fondly recalled the challenges and joys of shooting. She admitted to being nervous about her Hindi lines, meticulously practicing them daily. “The best part about shooting the film was not knowing anything about filmmaking, because it meant I didn’t care about the camera angle or how I looked on camera,” she revealed.
• Abhay Deol's Visionary Pitch: Lead actor Abhay Deol was the catalyst for "Dev D." He initially pitched a love story to Anurag Kashyap, intentionally withholding the "contemporary Devdas" twist. Deol shared, “When I narrated it to Anurag, I didn’t tell him it was a contemporary treatment. I just narrated a love story. He did not guess what I was actually narrating, and when I revealed that it was a contemporary Devdas, he went quiet for 20 minutes, imagining it in his head.” Deol's original intent was to “call out Devdas’ misogyny and highlight the women’s resilience,” though the film's ending ultimately diverged from his initial idea.
The Enduring Impact of Music Music director Amit Trivedi’s career soared after "Dev D." He highlighted the symbiotic relationship between the film's music and its story: “Each song was deeply rooted in the narrative, whether it was the wild energy of ‘Emosanal Attyachaar’ or the quiet ache of ‘Nayan Tarse’. When the film was released, something shifted for me and helped me find my voice as a composer.”
About Dev D: A Modern Classic Produced by Ronnie Screwvala, "Dev D" boldly reinvented the timeless "Devdas" narrative. The film featured:
• Abhay Deol as the titular Dev
• Mahie Gill as Paro
• Kalki Koechlin as Chanda (her memorable debut)
• Nawazuddin Siddiqui in an entertaining cameo as a band singer in the iconic track 'Emosanal Attyachar'.
The re-release of "Dev D" offers a unique chance to revisit a film that pushed boundaries and left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
