Madhuri Dixit Reflects on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Artistic Mastery in 'Devdas'
In a recent interview, legendary actress Madhuri Dixit revisited her profound experience of working with acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the 2002 cinematic masterpiece, 'Devdas'. Celebrated for its lavish sets and deep emotional resonance, the film remains a pivotal landmark in the history of Hindi cinema, continuing to captivate audiences with its artistic brilliance.
A Collaboration Rooted in Artistic Vision
For Dixit, the partnership with Bhansali transcended mere performance, evolving into an immersion within a grand artistic vision. She characterized Bhansali's cinematic methodology as inherently lyrical, where every component of the film—from staging to performance—was infused with a rhythmic elegance and beauty. According to Dixit, this meticulous attention to detail and poetic sensibility is what transformed 'Devdas' into an unforgettable and enduring cinematic journey.
Portraying Chandramukhi: A Role of Emotional Depth
Discussing her iconic portrayal of Chandramukhi, Dixit emphasized the character's rich emotional layers. She described Chandramukhi not merely as a courtesan but as a woman propelled by intense, unrequited love and a quiet dignity. This role provided Dixit with a unique opportunity to explore a spectrum of emotions, balancing vulnerability with inner strength, making it one of her most cherished performances.
Dixit drew a fascinating parallel between Chandramukhi and the devotional poet-saint Meera Bai, noting, "She has an innate innocence. She was like Meera basically, because she loves someone that she knows cannot love her back." Capturing this essence of one-sided devotion demanded a focus on subtle expressions and nuanced body language, a challenge she and Bhansali navigated together with great synergy.
The Physical Demands of an Iconic Song
Recalling the filming of the legendary song 'Kahe Chhed Mohe', Dixit shed light on the formidable physical challenges involved. The elaborate ghaghra she wore was crafted from genuine velvet with intricate embroidery and real beads, rendering it exceptionally heavy—reportedly weighing nearly 30 kilograms at one point. This immense weight made movement arduous, with the skirt continuing to swirl even after she ceased spinning.
Despite the exhaustion, Dixit affirmed that the final on-screen result validated the struggle. She remarked, "When you see it on the screen, his eye to detail, the way he shoots every scene, you feel it was all worth it." This experience under Bhansali's exacting standards, often perceived as taskmaster-like, was ultimately rewarding, with Dixit recalling his gentle directive: "just give me some magic."
A Legacy That Endures
Over two decades post-release, Madhuri Dixit's reflections underscore why her collaboration with Sanjay Leela Bhansali on 'Devdas' remains a treasured chapter in Indian cinema. Their partnership is frequently hailed as one of the most revered actor-director duos, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Meanwhile, Bhansali is currently engaged with his forthcoming project, 'Love And War', featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, as the legacy of 'Devdas' continues to inspire through such heartfelt recollections.
