Anurag Kashyap's iconic film, "Dev D," is making a grand return to cinemas on April 24, 17 years after its initial release. This contemporary reimagining of the classic "Devdas" story, starring Abhay Deol, Kalki Koechlin, and Mahie Gill, originally captivated audiences and critics alike, securing its place as a cult classic. Its re-release offers a unique opportunity for both loyal fans to revisit the cinematic experience and for a new generation to discover its enduring impact on Indian cinema.

The film, which first hit screens in 2009, was a significant milestone in Anurag Kashyap's career, establishing him as a prominent filmmaker before the success of "Gangs Of Wasseypur." Its innovative narrative style, bold themes, and groundbreaking soundtrack by Amit Trivedi garnered immense praise and a dedicated following. Now, audiences will have the chance to experience this influential movie once again, albeit in select theatres, bringing its powerful story and unforgettable music back to the big screen.

What Happened?

Anurag Kashyap's critically acclaimed film, "Dev D," is scheduled for a special theatrical re-release on April 24. This celebrated movie, which premiered in 2009, will be shown in select cinemas across the country. The re-release comes as a treat for cinephiles who remember its original impact and for those who have yet to experience its unique storytelling on a large screen. The film's return is highly anticipated, given its historical significance in modern Indian cinema.

"Dev D" was a pivotal film that challenged traditional storytelling norms, offering a gritty and modern interpretation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's timeless novel, "Devdas." It starred Abhay Deol as the titular character, with Mahie Gill playing Paro and Kalki Koechlin making her memorable debut as Chanda. Director Anurag Kashyap expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “To see Dev D return to the big screen feels special. It’s a film meant to be experienced collectively with Amit Trivedi’s music and Rajeev Ravi’s cinematography powering the narrative. I am curious to see how the new generation responds to it.”

The idea for "Dev D" surprisingly came from lead actor Abhay Deol. He recalled that many initially found his concept "too arty." When he presented it to Anurag Kashyap as a simple love story, the director took 20 minutes to imagine the contemporary Devdas twist after it was revealed. Kalki Koechlin shared her early filming experiences, remembering her nervousness about Hindi lines and her unique approach to acting without caring about camera angles. Music director Amit Trivedi also acknowledged how the film's soundtrack, featuring songs like 'Emosanal Attyachaar' and 'Nayan Tarse,' significantly boosted his career and helped him find his artistic voice.

Key Highlights

Anurag Kashyap's cult classic film "Dev D" is set to re-release in select cinemas on April 24.
The 2009 movie, starring Abhay Deol, Kalki Koechlin, and Mahie Gill, returns 17 years after its original debut.
Abhay Deol was the originator of the contemporary "Devdas" idea that ultimately became "Dev D."
Kalki Koechlin made her critically acclaimed acting debut in this groundbreaking film.
The film's innovative music by Amit Trivedi played a crucial role in its narrative and significantly advanced his career.
Director Anurag Kashyap expressed excitement about the film's collective viewing experience and new audience reactions.
"Dev D" is a modern and unique adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic Bengali novel, "Devdas."

Why Does This Matter?

The re-release of "Dev D" is significant for several reasons, impacting both devoted film enthusiasts and casual moviegoers. For those who witnessed its original release, it offers a nostalgic journey back to a pivotal moment in independent Indian cinema. It's a rare chance to revisit a film that dared to be different, with its unconventional narrative and raw portrayal of emotions. Experiencing its powerful visuals and immersive music, as intended by its creators, on the big screen can reignite the passion and discussions that surrounded its initial debut. It allows fans to appreciate the film's artistic depth and cultural relevance once more.

For a new generation of viewers, the return of "Dev D" is an invaluable opportunity to discover a true modern classic. This film was instrumental in shaping the landscape of contemporary Indian cinema, pushing boundaries in storytelling, character development, and musical scores. Its themes of love, loss, and self-discovery remain timeless and resonate deeply even today. Watching "Dev D" now can offer insights into the evolution of filmmaking and acting in the past two decades. It provides a chance to understand why certain films achieve cult status and how they continue to influence future generations of filmmakers and artists, proving that great stories endure across time.