Twenty-one years after its release, Govind Nihalani’s ‘Dev’ continues to resonate as a vital exploration of communal violence in the aftermath of the Godhra riots. Amitabh Bachchan leads the cast as a police officer, providing a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of communalism. The film contrasts the gradual understanding of Dev Pratap Singh with the hardened communal views of Tejinder Khosla.
Bachchan spoke about his experience, praising Nihalani’s comprehensive approach. He emphasized the importance of the film’s subject matter, highlighting the isolation experienced by certain communities. Bachchan noted that the film’s dialogue was necessary to convey the complexities of the issues. Bachchan indicated that his performance came naturally, reacting to the situations and dialogues.
The film’s recreation of the violence was deeply disturbing. The film delves into these sensitive issues, offering a commentary on the state of affairs. It also deals with the politicization of the police. The film portrays how the police force has been used to oppress certain communities. Meenaxi Sharma’s screenplay is a standout, creating a sense of foreboding. The narrative goes beyond the surface-level power struggles, exploring the deeper structures of society.
The central figures, Dev Pratap Singh and Tejinder Khosla, represent opposing viewpoints. Tejinder’s unwavering communal stance is contrasted with Dev’s moral awakening. The film shows how oppression isn’t exclusive to one group. The film places some blame on politicians. Nihalani’s storytelling allows his characters to grow. A tender love story unfolds amid the violence. Kareena Kapoor and Fardeen Khan add an emotional layer to the harsh reality of the film. Amitabh Bachchan and Om Puri anchor the film with their performances. Puri’s character is chilling. Bachchan’s portrayal is moving, and the riot scenes are effectively depicted. The film concludes with a characteristic twist.