Madhuri is expected to give a memorable performance as Chandramukhi

As the director Sanjay Leela Bhansali puts it, Devdas was not just the most widely read story, it has also entailed a national movement in Indian literature touching every heart... . It was a story that tirelessly lingered at the back of my mind. "So, Sanjay Leela Bhansali was at it for many months, playing for Aishwarya Rai old video clippings of the classical Devdas so that she got a feel of things. Madhuri Dixit was signed as Chandramukhi for an astounding sum of money, while Shah Rukh Khan was cast as classic lovelorn hero. The director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, is convinced that this film based on literature with the classical old-world charm will definitely find takers even in the 21st century. To recreate old traditions, lifestyle and culture, the filmmaker Bhansali has lavishly mounted the film without offending the spirit of Devdas. It is a tribute to a great story and makes emotion its hero.

The main assets of Devdas are that Madhuri Dixit is in a role that will showcase her histrionic and dancing skills. Shah Rukh Khan has a good opportunity to prove himself in yet another ‘powerful’ role that can immortalise him as the greatest lover of all time. Jackie Shroff plays the pivotal role of Chunnilal. Jackie’s mere presence in a film lends a feeling of rock solid stability to it. Ismail Darbar, (Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam), has come up with a classical, creative and original score. Ismail Darbar’s thumri picturised on Madhuri Dixit and the rain song with Aishwarya Rai holding a lighted diya are said to be something special. Debutant lyricist Nusrat Badr’s lyrics are said to be ‘different’. What’s more, cinematographer Binod Pradhan’s excellent camerawork, Bela Sehgal’s reputation as editor and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s conviction and self assured direction are also the plus point of Devdas.

Bhansali’s remake of the classic Devdas will definitely prove him to be a master filmmaker. Film pundits in Bollywood are anxiously waiting for the release. And despite a huge budget and formidable cast, Bollywood’s pundits are apprehensive as to how contemporary cine-goers used to seeing Hindi film loverboys will take to this tragic story of unrequited love. Despite this Devdas is a movie to watch.