Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna turns 20: Shah Rukh Khan’s most stinging, raw role after the smarmy Rahuls and Rajs

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna marked its 20th anniversary, featuring Shah Rukh Khan's most intense and authentic role since his earlier portrayals. In the film, Dev Saran, played by Shah Rukh Khan, is a character who has been married but is uncertain about his happiness. The film, directed by Karan Johar, challenges the conventional belief that marriage always leads to a happy ending.

Unlike other films where Shah Rukh Khan played the lead, Dev is already married and is not portrayed as unhappy or joyful. His relationship with his wife, Riya, is strained, with both of them not prioritizing each other's needs. As their marriage falters, Dev meets Maya, a near-widowed bride who is unsure about her future.

The film's dialogue between Dev and Maya is one of the most profound exchanges in a Karan Johar film. Maya asks Dev what love is, challenging the notion of love as portrayed in movies. Dev's response, "What did you think love was, something they show in bad books and bad films?" highlights his bitterness and frustration. Maya's answer, "This is not the way love usually is," further emphasizes the film's raw and realistic portrayal of relationships.

Dev's hollowness and bitterness are palpable, as he blames everyone around him for his shattered dreams. His struggle to find love and his inability to communicate effectively with his wife, Riya, create a deeply flawed character. Despite the film's flaws, Shah Rukh Khan's portrayal of Dev is visceral and haunting, showcasing the actor's ability to bring depth and intensity to a challenging role.