Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Devdas," released in 2002, remains a cinematic marvel, renowned for its opulent sets, elaborate costumes, and stellar performances by Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Madhuri Dixit. However, the journey of bringing this tragic love saga to the big screen was fraught with challenges, including financial constraints and unexpected hurdles.
One of the most striking anecdotes from the film's production is the sheer scale of resources required to light up the massive sets. Shah Rukh Khan, who played the titular role, revealed that a staggering 90 generators were used simultaneously during the shoot. "We used to have 90 gensets on the sets at one time to light up the area, and there were no generators left in the city of Mumbai because it had to be lit up so much," he shared. This monumental effort underscores the grandeur and lavishness that Bhansali envisioned for "Devdas," pushing the boundaries of cinematic extravagance.
Cinematographer Binod Pradhan recalled that the makers even had to acquire extra land to accommodate 120 generators for one particular scene. This logistical feat highlights the dedication and resourcefulness of the production team in realizing Bhansali's vision. The need for so many generators also speaks to the technology available at the time, before advancements in more efficient lighting solutions.
Beyond the logistical challenges of lighting, "Devdas" faced other significant obstacles. Costume designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla described the production as a "nightmare," citing delayed payments and chaotic schedules. Abu Jani recounted, "When I started working in the industry, it was very unprofessional. Payments were late; the schedules were horrible... Even by 2002, Devdas was a nightmare; we had to constantly stay ready with costumes".
Adding to the turmoil, producer Bharat Shah was arrested mid-production in 2001 for alleged links to the underworld. This event plunged the production into further chaos, exacerbating the existing financial difficulties. Sandeep Khosla recalled, "Getting paid became a nightmare. We were still finishing garments like the 'Dola Re' costumes at the last minute". Despite these challenges, the designers completed the breathtaking costumes, which ultimately earned national recognition.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali himself acknowledged the turbulent journey of "Devdas," admitting that the film was often dubbed "jinxed". From a set fire to legal troubles, the production seemed to be plagued by misfortune. However, Bhansali viewed these obstacles as a "test of passion," reinforcing the idea that the most beautiful films are often born from the hardest battles.
Despite the numerous hurdles, "Devdas" emerged as a visual masterpiece, celebrated for its opulence and artistry. The film's success not only solidified Bhansali's reputation as a visionary director but also showcased the resilience and dedication of the entire cast and crew. The anecdote about Mumbai's generators being entirely used for one scene encapsulates the extraordinary efforts undertaken to bring this iconic film to life, cementing its place in Bollywood history.
