The 2002 film Devdas, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, remains a cherished classic in Indian cinema. Featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Madhuri Dixit, the film showcased outstanding performances that continue to resonate with audiences.
In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, Bhansali reflected on the remarkable acting in Devdas and discussed how contemporary acting techniques have evolved.
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Sanjay Leela Bhansali Feels Acting Has Evolved, Says THIS About His Film Devdas
When asked about the changes in the acting process over the years, Bhansali remarked, “I think the cinema has changed, techniques have changed. Now a director looks at cinema differently. The scriptwriters are writing differently and sketching varied and unusual roles. It is a great time for Indian cinema. Today, great films are being made, and wonderful work is being done.”
He elaborated on the distinct acting style of Devdas, noting, “The sur (tone) and the note at which Devdas was being performed, it was high pitch and operatic… it was difficult to perform. In those days, directors demanded actors to be that way but today, they ask actors to underplay and be subtle which is also nice. What Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Madhuri Dixit, and Kirron Kher did in Devdas, are notes and sur that today’s actors may not be able to deliver because they were a little unreal and demanded a deeper understanding of the acting techniques which Shah Rukh handled with brilliance.”
Bhansali’s insights highlight the contrast between the dramatic, larger-than-life performances of Devdas and the more nuanced, subtle acting styles prevalent in today’s cinema.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Work Front
On the work front, Bhansali’s debut series Heeramandi began streaming on an OTT platform on May 1. The series stars Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Sanjeeda Shaikh, and Richa Chadha in lead roles. Fardeen Khan, Shekhar Suman, Adhyayan Suman, and Taha Shah Badussha also have pivotal roles.
The series has received acclaim for its storytelling and performances, further cementing Bhansali’s reputation as a master storyteller.
Following the success of Heeramandi, Bhansali is now preparing for his next film, Love & War. The film, which stars Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal in lead roles, is slated for a December 2025 release.
