Few films in Indian cinema have achieved the kind of timeless legacy that Devdas enjoys. As Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus prepares to complete 24 years, the film continues to be celebrated as one of the most visually spectacular, emotionally stirring and culturally significant Hindi films ever made.Released on July 12, 2002, Devdas wasn’t just another adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s iconic novel it became a cinematic event that redefined grandeur on the big screen. Featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Madhuri Dixit in career-defining performances, the film remains a benchmark for production design, music, costumes and storytelling.On its 24th anniversary, here’s a look at 24 fascinating facts that make Devdas a true classic.1. Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s visionary direction: Every frame reflected Bhansali’s artistic brilliance. His larger-than-life storytelling transformed Devdas into a cinematic spectacle.2. A timeless literary adaptation: The film beautifully reimagined Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s beloved novel while preserving its emotional soul.3. Shah Rukh Khan’s career-defining performance: His portrayal of Devdas captured vulnerability, heartbreak and self-destruction with extraordinary emotional depth.4. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s graceful Paro: Her elegance, quiet strength and emotional restraint made Paro one of Hindi cinema’s most unforgettable heroines.5. Madhuri Dixit’s iconic Chandramukhi: She infused Chandramukhi with dignity, compassion and grace, creating one of the finest performances of her career.6. Unforgettable chemistry: The emotional bond between Dev and Paro remains one of Bollywood’s most celebrated love stories.7. A rare female bond: Paro and Chandramukhi’s mutual respect added emotional depth that was rarely seen in mainstream cinema.8. Grand production design: The magnificent sets transformed every scene into a breathtaking visual experience.9. Stunning cinematography: Every frame resembled a painting, making Devdas one of the most visually beautiful Indian films ever made.10. Luxurious costumes: The elaborate costumes continue to inspire designers and remain among the finest seen in Indian cinema.11. A timeless musical album: The unforgettable compositions continue to evoke nostalgia more than two decades later.12. Songs that became classics: From Dola Re Dola to Maar Dala and Silsila Ye Chaahat Ka, every song became a hit.13. Mesmerising choreography: Each dance sequence be it Madhuri and Aishwarya in Dola Re Dola or Jackie Shoff and Shah Rukh Khan in Chalak Chalak, seamlessly blended storytelling with spectacular visual grandeur.14. Powerful dialogues: The film delivered memorable lines that continue to resonate with audiences. “Babuji ne kaha gaon chhod do, sabne kaha Paro ko chhod do, Paro ne kaha sharab chhod do, aaj tumne kaha haveli chhod do… Ek din aayega jab woh kahenge, duniya hi chhod do,” delivered by Shah Rukh Khan and many more carry the emotional heft, even today.15. Emotional storytelling: Love, longing, pride and sacrifice were portrayed with extraordinary sensitivity.16. A benchmark for period films: Devdas redefined the scale and visual richness of period dramas in Indian cinema.17. One of the costliest Indian films of its time: Its lavish production set new standards for scale and ambition in Hindi filmmaking.18. Cannes Film Festival premiere: Screened Out of Competition at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival, Devdas introduced its visual grandeur to a global audience.19. India’s official Oscar entry: The film represented India in the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Academy Awards.20. Worldwide recognition: Its success helped showcase the richness and artistic excellence of Indian cinema to audiences across the world.21. Award-winning excellence: From performances and music to art direction and costume design, the film received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards.22. A lasting cultural impact: Its songs, costumes, dialogues and characters continue to influence films, fashion and popular culture.23. A masterclass in filmmaking: For aspiring filmmakers, Devdas remains an example of how every creative department can work in perfect harmony.24. A legacy that only grows stronger: Twenty-four years later, Devdas continues to inspire new generations, proving that truly great cinema is timeless.