Bhansali Defends Devdas as a Story of Love, Not Self-Destruction
Bhansali insists Devdas portrays deep love rather than glorifying toxic behavior or self-destructive actions
Shah Rukh Khan initially hesitated to play Devdas, feeling he has a cool personality
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Bhansali addressed concerns, explaining that his intention was never to glorify self-destructive behavior, but to portray the depth of Devdas love. People say he’s a loser because he couldn’t overcome his sorrow,Bhansali said, but I see him as the ultimate lover. Devdas is a man whose entire life revolves around love. His story is not about being a failure; it’s about loving someone with all his heart.
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Shah Rukh Khan, one of Bollywood’s most popular actors, recently shared insights about his iconic role as Devdas in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s 2002 film Devdas. The film, based on the novel by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, tells the story of a man who descends into alcoholism and self-destruction after losing the love of his life, Paro. Over the years, Devdas has sparked debates on whether the movie glorifies toxic behavior and romanticizes alcoholism.
Bhansali admitted that some actors had expressed concerns over playing the role, feeling that the character’s excessive drinking and inability to move on might send the wrong message. However, Bhansali stood by his creative vision, seeing Devdas as a deeply noble character. to love like Devdas is rare, Bhansali said. “He might be flawed, but his love is pure.”
Shah Rukh Khan also spoke about his initial hesitation to take on the role. At the Locarno Film Festival, Khan revealed that when Bhansali first approached him, he felt the character didn’t align with his cool image at the time. “I said no, he’s a loser, an alcoholic, and I’m too cool for this,” SRK recalled. However, Bhansali convinced him by saying, “I won’t make this film without you. Your eyes are Devdas’ eyes.”
Eventually, Shah Rukh agreed to take on the role, which went on to become one of the most memorable performances of his career.
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