Shah Rukh Khan Acquires Rights to Bhansali’s ‘Devdas’: ‘Proud It Belongs to Us
Shah Rukh Khan is Pardo alla Carriara Award At the 77th Locarno Film Festival, SRK became the first Indian to win the prestigious award for his achievements in the film industry. During the festival, SRK announced that his production company Red Chillies Entertainment will Sanjay Leela BhansaliThe lavish 2002 film adaptation ofDevdas‘ also stars Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Madhuri Dixit Nene, and Jackie ShroffThe announcement came just before a special screening of the film.
SRK was thrilled to own the rights and added, “We as a production company have bought back the rights of the film and we are very proud that the film now belongs to our company.”
Shah Rukh Khan reflected on the challenges and pressures of adapting such an epic love story into a film, noting that there are already more than 18 versions, some of which are classics. Dilip KumarHe said that many people dissuaded him from taking on the role because it was different from his previous roles, and further noted that by the time Sanjay Leela Bhansali proposed the film, India’s cultural climate was shifting towards more modern, commercial entertainment, making the story seem outdated to some.
He also spoke about the financial woes and delays that made it one of India’s most expensive films to make. Despite these issues, he felt it was worthwhile as it was a tribute to his mother, who loved the original. He revealed that many in the industry advised him not to take up the role, pointing out that it did not fit his usual style. However, a personal connection and an unfulfilled dream pushed him on. “This is not your domain. You are more pop-culture,” SRK quoted advice he received from industry insiders. Dilip Kumar also appreciated the film. SRK gave all the credit to Sanjay Leela Bhansali for creating such a masterpiece.
The film’s lavish production required significant funding, with Shah Rukh Khan recalling the extensive use of 90 generators to achieve the necessary lighting. He described the film as lavish and grandiose, highlighting the extravagance of the costumes and drama. Bollywood’s King Khan praised his co-stars Aishwarya Rai, Madhuri Dixit and Jackie Shroff, and reflected on his own role as the lead. He noted the challenges of wearing the intricate Indian costumes, especially the dhoti-kurta, which was unwieldy and would often fall off during scenes. To combat this, he resorted to using zippers in his joking manner, admitting that it was an unconventional solution but necessary to prevent costume malfunctions.
SRK finally described “Devdas” as a “modern masterpiece” that has achieved cult status and international acclaim. He praised the film for embodying Indian cinema through its grandeur, beauty and theatricality. Khan highlighted the film’s dramatic and dialogue richness and said it features some of the most stunning dance sequences he has ever performed.
