Starcast: Dev Anand, Nanda, Simi Garewal, Kalpana Mohan, I S Johar, Rashid Khan, and Harindranath Chattopadhyay Direction: Amar Jee...
Starcast: Dev Anand, Nanda, Simi Garewal, Kalpana
Mohan, I S Johar, Rashid Khan,
and Harindranath Chattopadhyay
Direction: Amar Jeet
Music: S D Burman
Teen Deviyan (translated as Three Goddesses),
released on May 28, 1965, is a Bollywood romantic comedy that stands out as a
gem of its era. Directed by Amarjeet and ghost-directed by the charismatic lead
actor Dev Anand, the film is a delightful exploration of love and
relationships, wrapped in the vibrant aesthetics of 1960s Indian cinema.
Inspired by the works of D.H. Lawrence, the movie broke conventional boundaries
with its bold premise of a man falling in love with three women simultaneously.
This concept was remarkably ahead of its time, challenging the traditional
notions of romance in Indian cinema, which typically revolved around monogamous
devotion or epic heroism. Despite being filmed primarily in black and white,
with a few color sequences, Teen Deviyan offers a blend of humor, romance, and
emotional depth, making it a timeless classic.
Storyline
The film follows Devdutt Anand (Dev Anand), a
charming poet and salesman at a musical instruments store. Devdutt’s life takes
a turn when his boss, I.S. Johar, discovers his poetic talent and promotes his
work, thrusting him into the limelight. Amidst this newfound fame, Devdutt
encounters three distinct women, each leaving a profound impact on his heart.
Meena (Nanda) is a homely, grounded girl from his neighborhood; Kalpana
(Kalpana) is a glamorous Bollywood actress; and Simi, alias Radha Rani (Simi Garewal),
is a sophisticated, wealthy socialite who can advance his career. The narrative
weaves through Devdutt’s genuine affection for each woman, exploring the
complexities of his emotions as he grapples with the impossibility of choosing
one without betraying the others. Unlike typical romantic comedies, the film
avoids portraying Devdutt as a deceitful playboy; instead, it presents his
relationships as sincere, with each woman aware of the others and willing to
accept his indecision. This nuanced portrayal of polyamorous affection, set
against the backdrop of 1960s India, was revolutionary, making Teen Deviyan a
trailblazer in its exploration of modern love dynamics.
Direction and Other Technical Departments
Amarjeet’s direction, with Dev Anand’s rumored
ghost-directing, brings a fresh perspective to Teen Deviyan. The film balances
lighthearted comedy with introspective moments, a feat achieved through careful
pacing and a script that doesn’t shy away from emotional complexity. The
screenplay, credited to Sadashiv Brahmam, infuses wit and depth, ensuring the
narrative transcends the trope of a man merely flirting with multiple women.
The cinematography, primarily in black and white, captures Calcutta’s bustling
streets and intimate settings with elegance, while the few color sequences,
particularly in the final frames, add a touch of vibrancy. The production
design and costumes reflect the 1960s’ glamour, with Dev Anand’s urban attire
setting fashion trends and the actresses’ wardrobes highlighting their distinct
personalities. However, the film’s lightweight script occasionally feels
scattered, lacking the gravitas a director like Vijay Anand might have brought
to such a mature theme. Despite this, the technical execution—editing,
lighting, and set design—creates a visually appealing experience that
complements the story’s emotional core.
Music
The music of Teen Deviyan, composed by S.D. Burman,
is a cornerstone of its enduring appeal. With lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri and
vocals by legends like Kishore Kumar, Mohammed Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, and Asha
Bhosle, the soundtrack is a treasure trove of romantic melodies. Songs like
Khwab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat (sung by Kishore Kumar) and Likha Hai Teri Aankhon
Mein (a duet by Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar) became instant classics,
their soulful tunes and poetic lyrics resonating with audiences even today.
Aise To Na Dekho (Mohammed Rafi) adds a playful charm, while Are Yaar Meri Tum
Bhi Ho Gazab (Kishore Kumar and Asha Bhosle) captures the film’s flirtatious
energy. Each song is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the
emotional stakes of Devdutt’s relationships. S.D. Burman’s compositions, paired
with R.D. Burman’s uncredited contributions, elevate the film, making its music
a highlight that transcends generations.
Performances
Dev Anand delivers a stellar performance as
Devdutt, embodying the role of a suave yet conflicted poet with effortless
charm. His expressive eyes and confident demeanor make him the quintessential
romantic hero, while his subtle portrayal of inner turmoil adds depth to the
character. Nanda shines as Meena, bringing warmth and relatability to her
homely persona, making her the emotional anchor of the story. Simi Garewal, as
the elegant Radha Rani, exudes sophistication and vulnerability, her chemistry
with Dev Anand particularly compelling. Kalpana, as the vivacious actress,
infuses her role with glamour and emotional complexity, holding her own against
the stellar cast. Supporting actors, including I.S. Johar as the quirky boss,
add comedic flair, enhancing the film’s lighthearted tone. The ensemble’s
chemistry and individual brilliance ensure that each character leaves a lasting
impression, making the romantic entanglements believable and engaging.
Teen Deviyan is a delightful
romantic comedy that remains a standout in Bollywood’s golden era, thanks to
its ahead-of-its-time concept and captivating execution. By exploring the
intricacies of loving multiple people simultaneously, the film challenged the
conservative norms of 1960s India, presenting a modern, nuanced take on
relationships that resonates even today. While the script occasionally falters
in depth, the stellar performances, unforgettable music, and competent
direction more than compensate, creating a film that is both entertaining and
thought-provoking. Dev Anand’s magnetic presence, coupled with the talents of
Nanda, Simi Garewal, and Kalpana, makes Teen Deviyan a must-watch for fans of
classic Bollywood. Its blend of romance, comedy, and emotional introspection,
underscored by S.D. Burman’s timeless soundtrack, ensures its place as a
cherished classic that continues to enchant audiences.
-By Ayushmaan Mitra
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