Fardeen Khan's Reflection on 21 Years of 'Dev': A Politically Charged Milestone

Fardeen Khan's Role in 'Dev'

In Govind Nihalani's impactful film Dev, Fardeen Khan's expression captures a deep-seated turmoil and conflict. His portrayal of a discontented young Muslim resonates with Hrithik Roshan's character in Khalid Mohamed's Fiza, albeit in a more subdued manner and within a limited scope. Fardeen's awkwardness aligns perfectly with his character's internal struggles, although his accent leans more towards South Mumbai rather than the less affluent Baroda.

A Game-Changing Experience

For Fardeen Khan, Dev marked a pivotal moment in his career. He expressed gratitude towards Kareena Kapoor, who recommended him for the role, stating, "It was my third film with her, and I will always appreciate her for that." Working under a director of Govind Nihalani's caliber was a novel experience for him. Fardeen remarked, "Being cast by the esteemed Govind Nihalani alongside legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Om Puri was a significant endorsement for any actor. Govindji was highly regarded for his meticulous direction and compelling storytelling."

Significance of the Role

This film represented Fardeen Khan's first portrayal of a real-life character. He noted, "The role allowed me to engage in a project that was both relevant and meaningful, which was quite rare at that time."

A Memorable Collaboration

What stood out most for Fardeen in Dev? He shared, "It was the opportunity to share the screen with Amitji, an actor I have always admired. His remarkable career has significantly influenced Indian cinema and left a lasting impact on me and countless others. Working with him was a once-in-a-lifetime honor and a highlight of my career."

A Defining Film

When asked if he considers Dev the most significant film of his career, Fardeen replied, "It was undoubtedly the most socially relevant role that conveyed a meaningful message."