Teen Devian

Teen Devian is a classic and intriguing Indian romantic film released in 1965. Directed by Amarjeet, this black-and-white cinematic experience features a star-studded cast led by legendary actor Dev Anand alongside Nanda, Kalpana, and Simi Garewal. The unique narrative marks the film as an exemplar of Bollywood's Golden Age, combining elements of romance, comedy, drama, and the distinctive song and dance sequences that define Indian cinema.

The film's title, Teen Devian - meaning 'Three Girls' in Hindi - is an apt reflection of its premise. Dev Anand masterfully portrays the character of Devdutt Anand, a poet hailing from Shimla. The story revolves around the entangled lives of Devdutt and the three women who fall in love with him: Nanda, Kalpana, and Simi Garewal.

Nanda Karnataki, popularly known as Nanda, plays the role of Nanda, a saleswoman who Devdutt meets during his bus journey to Bombay. She is seen portraying a character who is grounded, simple, and enamored by Devdutt's poetic prowess. It's interesting to witness the nuanced duality her character embodies—of urban hustle and a yearning for poetic tranquility.

Kalpana Mohan plays the part of Kalpana, a vivacious and successful dancer. Her character brings an infectious energy and uninhibited charm to the screen. Through her captivating performance, Kalpana encapsulates the slightly materialistic yet incredibly spirited persona of her character, allowing it to resonate with the audience.

Completing this talented trio, Simi Garewal delivers an excellent portrayal as Simi, a level-headed, independent, and intelligent woman. Simi is shown as a fiercely independent woman, echoing the societal changes in the mid-'60s - a time when women were gradually stepping into leadership roles and asserting an identity outside domestic confines.

The plot unfolds the interesting journey of our man Devdutt juggling relationships with these three lovely women who are uniquely individual in their personalities and aspirations. The humour, wit, and drama that spin out of this unusual scenario underscore remarkable screenplay crafting, with a dash of fantasy thrown in.

Music is an indispensable part of Indian movies, and Teen Devian is no exception. The soulful and timeless music scored by S.D. Burman elevates the film’s narrative to newer heights. Including unforgettable songs like 'Khwab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat' and 'Are Yaar Meri Tum Bhi Ho Ghazab', this film is an auditory delight as much as it is a visual one, becoming a cult classic within the genre.

Progressing through the narrative, the audience is tantalized with question - how does Devdutt handle this atypical situation? Each character is given adequate space and importance to establish her unique relationship with Devdutt, bringing out the individual themes of love, ambition, companionship, and self-realization. Devdutt's relationships with the three women simultaneously intensify the plot while also serving as a comedic device in character interactions.

The performance by Dev Anand, one of India's most beloved and accomplished actors, is commendable. His execution of the suave, charming, yet love-torn Devdutt is a testament to his exceptional acting prowess. Nanda, Simi, and Kalpana have compelling screen presence and representation, creating a beautiful synergy with Dev Anand and an engaging narrative overall.

Teen Devian is a unique project that attempted to break free from generic conventions of the times, curiously dabbling with the concept of a man being loved by three different women. In addition to the movie offering an engaging plot, it is also a fantastic representation of 60s Indian cinema with its glamorous costumes, elaborate songs, and a portrayal of evolving societal norms.

In conclusion, Teen Devian as a movie stands the test of time with its exceptional performances, captivating music, and engaging narrative. A delightful classic of Indian cinema, it provides an enriching experience to its viewers, making it resonate in the hearts of vintage Bollywood film lovers even today. It's a Bollywood masterpiece that continues to charm audiences with its engaging blend of romance, comedy, and music, making it a must-see for all fans of Indian cinema.