Govind Nihalani’s film ‘Dev,’ released 21 years ago, remains a significant cinematic exploration of the post-Godhra communal riots. Amitabh Bachchan delivers a compelling performance as a police officer grappling with the complexities of communalism. The film contrasts Dev Pratap Singh’s (Bachchan) evolving awareness of the issue with Tejinder Khosla’s (Om Puri) starkly communal perspective.
Bachchan shared his experience, highlighting Nihalani’s dedication and ability to address difficult social issues. He emphasized the film’s exploration of the isolation faced by a community and its impact on the nation. The film challenges viewers with its dialogue-driven narrative, forcing a confrontation with uncomfortable truths. Nihalani’s direction demanded a specific acting approach. Bachchan reacted to the scenes and situations, showcasing the horrors of communal violence.
The film’s depiction of violence was deeply unsettling. The film probes recent wounds, presenting a stark portrayal of events. It delves into the politicization of the police force and the marginalization of Indian Muslims. The screenplay by Meenaxi Sharma powerfully portrays the polarization of Hindus and Muslims. The narrative focuses on the power dynamics at play within society, with politicians exploiting religious divisions. The film’s central figures are Dev Pratap Singh and Tejinder Khosla, whose contrasting views highlight the complexities of the issue.
Tejinder’s unwavering belief in his communal ideology contrasts with Dev’s struggle with his conscience. The film portrays how oppression isn’t exclusive to any one group. The film attributes the communal strife to two politicians, one Hindu and one Muslim. Nihalani’s storytelling creates an emblematic structure for characters, allowing them to develop. A love story unfolds amid the riots, featuring Fardeen Khan and Kareena Kapoor. Their performances add an emotional dimension to the film’s serious subject matter. Bachchan and Puri’s performances anchor the film. Puri’s portrayal of the communal cop is shocking, echoing real-life events. Bachchan’s performance is poignant, and the riot scenes are vivid. The film ends with a twist, continuing Nihalani’s exploration of complex social issues.