Relatable, Real and Revolutionary: Dev D
·
·
Amit Trivedi's debut as a Bollywood composer technically began with "Aamir," though this was only because the release of "Dev.D" was delayed. While "Aamir" wasn't a bad start, it was "Dev.D" that truly amazed everyone.
Mixing Rajasthani-rock with a heartfelt ballad and some smooth lounge fusion, Trivedi worked his magic to create a revolutionary album.
Under Anurag Kashyap's direction, the film underwent a complete transformation. Kashyap recognized the inherent brilliance of the material and reworked it into a musical to fully showcase Trivedi’s talent.
Dev.D offers a new take on a tale that had been retold countless times. However, Abhay Deol, who conceived the film's idea, and Kashyap, who, along with Vikramaditya Motwane, continuously refined the script, approached it from a fresh angle. They set the story in modern times, incorporating drugs alongside alcohol, drawing inspiration from current news headlines, and adding layers to Chandramukhi's character.
This version of Devdas became relatable to a generation facing entirely new challenges.
The first storyline centers on Paro, a down-to-earth and assertive woman who travels to another city to send intimate photos to Dev, while also confronting the man who lied about their relationship. Kashyap introduces Paro to the audience with the folksy tune of ‘Dhol Yaara Dhol,’ playing during Dev’s wedding celebrations as Paro moves confidently.
However, the plot takes a turn when Dev rejects Paro after hearing a rumor. This moment is accompanied by the somber version of ‘Mahi Mennu,’ reflecting Paro’s heartbreak.
Despite this, Paro moves on from Dev. The movie then swiftly transitions through two Punjabi weddings, with the help of two Punjabi songs, seamlessly guiding the viewer through the events with minimal dialogue.
Midway through Paro's wedding, the movie's soundtrack takes center stage with "Patna ke Presley" performed by a brass band, offering an alternative rendition of 'Emotional Attyachar' that rivals the rock version in popularity.
The storyline then shifts to a completely new scene, introducing Leni/Chanda's narrative. Leni's story makes significant use of music, particularly during the portrayal of the Delhi Public School MMS scandal, set to the softly sung 'Yahi Meri Zindagi'.
Dev is now a drug addict wandering through the shadowy depths of Delhi, constantly chasing his next fix. The rock rendition of ‘Emotional Attyachar’ sets the backdrop for our re-encounter with him. Once again, Kashyap opts for silence over dialogue, allowing Dev to immerse himself in the angsty melody, starting softly before building to a crescendo. The song repeatedly mirrors Dev’s turmoil and has become a staple at any happening house party.
While 'Emotional Attyachar' remains synonymous with Dev.D, 'Pardesi' showcases Amit Trivedi in his prime. It may seem unnecessary to the movie, but Trivedi sees it as the perfect moment to introduce Haryanvi Club music.
Even though the song's main focus is Dev and Chunni meeting over drinks, the real standout is The Twilight Players. The sibling trio—Sinbad Phgura, Ammo 'Too Sweet', and Jimi ‘The Quiff’—appear throughout the film but truly shine in 'Pardesi' with their Open Hand dance. The dimly-lit bar adds to the surreal vibe, while the music captivates. With camera tricks inspired by Danny Boyle, Kashyap creates a top-notch Bollywood music video.
"Nayan Tarse" depicts Dev sinking deeper into despair, with Trivedi lending his voice to this lounge-fusion track. It plays as Paro comes and goes on her own terms. Dev finds some hope as he reunites with Chanda, symbolized by the whistled "Dev-Chanda theme." Their budding romance is underscored by "Dil Mein Jaagi," reminiscent of Leni's song, emphasizing Chanda's importance.
After many close calls, Dev hits rock bottom. Trivedi's "Saali Khushi" asks where happiness has gone as Dev's pain grows, leading to irreparable harm to someone else. Kashyap's portrayal of the hit-and-run case pushes Dev to the brink.
After adversity comes prosperity. Dev's life gets better with the song 'Duniya' and continues with the last song of the movie, 'Ek Hulchul Si'. In this version of Devdas by Kashyap, Dev ends up clean and with Chanda, giving the story a happier twist.
Click Here To Read More
The Rise Of 'Tarantinoism' In Bollywood
12th Fail Sets A New Benchmark In Indian Cinema
Mixing Rajasthani-rock with a heartfelt ballad and some smooth lounge fusion, Trivedi worked his magic to create a revolutionary album.
Under Anurag Kashyap's direction, the film underwent a complete transformation. Kashyap recognized the inherent brilliance of the material and reworked it into a musical to fully showcase Trivedi’s talent.
Dev.D offers a new take on a tale that had been retold countless times. However, Abhay Deol, who conceived the film's idea, and Kashyap, who, along with Vikramaditya Motwane, continuously refined the script, approached it from a fresh angle. They set the story in modern times, incorporating drugs alongside alcohol, drawing inspiration from current news headlines, and adding layers to Chandramukhi's character.
This version of Devdas became relatable to a generation facing entirely new challenges.
The first storyline centers on Paro, a down-to-earth and assertive woman who travels to another city to send intimate photos to Dev, while also confronting the man who lied about their relationship. Kashyap introduces Paro to the audience with the folksy tune of ‘Dhol Yaara Dhol,’ playing during Dev’s wedding celebrations as Paro moves confidently.
However, the plot takes a turn when Dev rejects Paro after hearing a rumor. This moment is accompanied by the somber version of ‘Mahi Mennu,’ reflecting Paro’s heartbreak.
Despite this, Paro moves on from Dev. The movie then swiftly transitions through two Punjabi weddings, with the help of two Punjabi songs, seamlessly guiding the viewer through the events with minimal dialogue.
Midway through Paro's wedding, the movie's soundtrack takes center stage with "Patna ke Presley" performed by a brass band, offering an alternative rendition of 'Emotional Attyachar' that rivals the rock version in popularity.
The storyline then shifts to a completely new scene, introducing Leni/Chanda's narrative. Leni's story makes significant use of music, particularly during the portrayal of the Delhi Public School MMS scandal, set to the softly sung 'Yahi Meri Zindagi'.
Dev is now a drug addict wandering through the shadowy depths of Delhi, constantly chasing his next fix. The rock rendition of ‘Emotional Attyachar’ sets the backdrop for our re-encounter with him. Once again, Kashyap opts for silence over dialogue, allowing Dev to immerse himself in the angsty melody, starting softly before building to a crescendo. The song repeatedly mirrors Dev’s turmoil and has become a staple at any happening house party.
While 'Emotional Attyachar' remains synonymous with Dev.D, 'Pardesi' showcases Amit Trivedi in his prime. It may seem unnecessary to the movie, but Trivedi sees it as the perfect moment to introduce Haryanvi Club music.
Even though the song's main focus is Dev and Chunni meeting over drinks, the real standout is The Twilight Players. The sibling trio—Sinbad Phgura, Ammo 'Too Sweet', and Jimi ‘The Quiff’—appear throughout the film but truly shine in 'Pardesi' with their Open Hand dance. The dimly-lit bar adds to the surreal vibe, while the music captivates. With camera tricks inspired by Danny Boyle, Kashyap creates a top-notch Bollywood music video.
"Nayan Tarse" depicts Dev sinking deeper into despair, with Trivedi lending his voice to this lounge-fusion track. It plays as Paro comes and goes on her own terms. Dev finds some hope as he reunites with Chanda, symbolized by the whistled "Dev-Chanda theme." Their budding romance is underscored by "Dil Mein Jaagi," reminiscent of Leni's song, emphasizing Chanda's importance.
After many close calls, Dev hits rock bottom. Trivedi's "Saali Khushi" asks where happiness has gone as Dev's pain grows, leading to irreparable harm to someone else. Kashyap's portrayal of the hit-and-run case pushes Dev to the brink.
After adversity comes prosperity. Dev's life gets better with the song 'Duniya' and continues with the last song of the movie, 'Ek Hulchul Si'. In this version of Devdas by Kashyap, Dev ends up clean and with Chanda, giving the story a happier twist.
Click Here To Read More
The Rise Of 'Tarantinoism' In Bollywood
12th Fail Sets A New Benchmark In Indian Cinema
