The making of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Devdas" was a tumultuous journey, filled with creative clashes and unexpected challenges. Recently, Monty Sharma, who composed the background music for the film, shared an anecdote revealing the intense pressure and demands that were part of the production process.
Sharma recalled a particularly stressful incident during which his wedding plans were repeatedly disrupted due to Bhansali's unwavering focus on completing the film. "I had postponed my wedding 5 times for Devdas," Sharma said. With his wedding just two days away, he was still searching for a venue when Bhansali called him, and criticized the film's background score, attributing the harsh words to Shah Rukh Khan. According to Sharma, Bhansali said, "Shah Rukh saw the thing and he said 'sabse bakwas background hai (it's the worst background). What have you done Monty?'". Sharma was understandably shocked, as Bhansali had previously approved the score.
Upon arriving at the studio, Sharma discovered that the issue was a mixing error. He pointed out to Bhansali that such technical matters were not his responsibility, and the entire background score was subsequently reworked.
Sharma described Bhansali as a "short-tempered" person who would express his anger indirectly, creating a tense atmosphere for everyone around him. He also shared that Bhansali wanted to incorporate the song "Silsila Yeh Chahat Ka" into the background score more frequently than Sharma felt was appropriate. According to Sharma, Bhansali questioned his artistic choices, saying, "Who listens to the background music?".
In response to Bhansali's demand, Sharma said, "I snapped. I told my assistant to take out all the themes and music, just use songs everywhere". However, this drastic measure was short-lived. Bhansali later called Sharma, attributing the miscommunication to the interference of assistants and urging him to trust his instincts and continue with his original approach.
Despite these conflicts, Sharma acknowledged that Bhansali also allowed him considerable artistic freedom. He recalled an instance where Bhansali wanted him to convert ‘Silsila Ye Chaahat Ka’ into a background theme for Paro, something Sharma felt was not right. Sharma refused to comply, standing his ground on a matter of artistic conviction. Bhansali initially left in anger but later apologized and encouraged Sharma to follow his creative instincts.
Moreover, the film faced other significant challenges. There were concerns about the film being "jinxed," with people suggesting that the production should be shut down. The sets even caught fire, and the film's producer, Bharat Shah, faced legal troubles.
Interestingly, Shah Rukh Khan initially didn't want to play Devdas, considering the character a "loser" and an "alcoholic". He felt he was "too cool to be Devdas". However, Bhansali persisted, telling Khan, "I will not make this film if not with you because your eyes are like Devdas". This ultimately convinced Khan to take on the role. Khan has also said that he would just drink alcohol for the shoot.
Despite the initial reservations and the behind-the-scenes drama, "Devdas" went on to become a major success, with both Bhansali and SRK delivering performances that resonated with audiences.
Even after the film's release, differences in opinion persisted. Bhansali disagreed with SRK's assessment of Devdas as a loser, stating that Devdas is not a loser, but rather "the most noble of any of my characters" because of his capacity to love.
