Kanan Devi

Kanan Devi (1916-1992) was a trailblazing figure in the Indian film industry, recognized as one of its earliest female superstars. Born as Kanan Bala in Howrah, she entered the world of acting at the young age of 10, captivating audiences with her extraordinary singing and acting talents. Over more than five decades, Kanan Devi not only starred in numerous successful films but also made significant contributions to the Bengali film industry's development. Beyond her cinematic achievements, she played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape. Kanan Devi's versatile artistry left an enduring legacy, making her a pioneer for women in Indian entertainment.

Early Life

Born in Howrah, Bengal, on April 22, 1916, Kanan Devi was raised by her adoptive father, Ratan Chandra Das, and mother, Rajobala. Following Ratan Chandra Das's death, she and her mother faced the challenges of life alone. At the age of 10, Kanan was introduced to Madan Theatres/Jyoti Studios by the supportive Tulsi Banerji. In her initial years, she secured a supporting role in Jyotish Banerjee Joydev (1926) and later featured as Kanan Bala in Shankaracharya (1927). From 1926 to 1932, Kanan appeared in at least five films produced by Madan Theatres, marking the early stages of her noteworthy career in the film industry.

Career

Kanan Devi, a luminary in the annals of Indian cinema, traversed a remarkable trajectory through various film productions, showcasing her enduring talent and versatility. Commencing her career with at least five films under Madan Theatres from 1926 to 1932, including the notable Rishir Prem (1931) and Jorebarat (1931), she demonstrated her adaptability by even portraying male leads in Prahlad. Subsequently, Kanan seamlessly transitioned across different film studios, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Her cinematic journey continued with collaborations with Radha Films (1933-1936), New Theatres (1937-1941), M.P. Productions (1942-1948), and her entrepreneurial venture, Shrimati Pictures, from 1949 to 1965. Despite commencing as a child artist in silent films, Kanan made a successful leap into talkies, gaining recognition with stellar performances in Jorebarat (1931), Manomoyee Girls School, Khooni Kaun, and Maa (1934). Her association with luminaries like Jyotish Bannerjee, Prafulla Ghosh, and Radha Film Company resulted in several successful collaborations, showcasing her diverse acting prowess.

Notably, her stint with New Theatres, under the ownership of Biren Sircar, marked a zenith in her career. She became a superhit singer, and her films drew packed audiences, necessitating constant protection due to her massive fan following. During her tenure with New Theatres in Calcutta from 1937, Kanan delivered stellar performances, most notably in Barua's Mukti (1937), which is often regarded as her finest work, solidifying her status as the studio's top star. Renamed Kanan Devi, she continued to shine in films like Vidyapati, Saathi (1938), Street Singer (1938), Sapera (1939), Jawani Ki Reet (1939), Parajay (1939), Abhinetri (1940), Lagan (1941), Parichay (1941), and Jawab (1942).

Beyond her cinematic accomplishments, Kanan Devi's musical journey was equally illustrious. Mentored by the music maestro Rai Chand Boral, she received training in the Hindi accent, exploring classical Western and Indian forms. Her initial musical training under Alla Rakha and further tutelage from Bhishmadev Chatterjee and Anadi Dastidar enriched her musical repertoire.

Collaborating with industry giants like K. L. Saigal, Pankaj Mullick, Pramathesh Ch Barua, Pahari Sanyal, Chabi Biswas, Trilok Kapoor, and Ashok Kumar, Kanan Devi's influence extended beyond acting to her significant contributions to Indian cinema's musical landscape. Her association with M.P. Productions resulted in significant hits like Jawaab, featuring the popular song "Duniya Yeh Duniya, Hai Toofan Mail," a success she replicated in Hospital (1943), Banphool (1945), and Rajlakshmi (1946). Kanan Devi's last Hindi film, Chandrashekhar (1948), marked a poignant conclusion to her cinematic journey.

Not content with just acting and singing, Kanan Devi ventured into film production, establishing Shrimati Pictures in 1949 and later launching the Sabyasachi Collective with the film Ananya (1949). Her productions often drew inspiration from the stories of Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay, showcasing her commitment to promoting meaningful narratives in Indian cinema. Kanan Devi's multifaceted contributions, spanning acting, singing, and production, continue to be celebrated, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends the boundaries of time.

Marriage Life

In December 1940, Kanan Devi entered into matrimony with Ashok Maitra. This significant event stirred controversy due to Ashok being the son of the staunch Brahmo Samaj educator Heramba Chandra Maitra. The union faced harsh criticism from more conservative segments of society, and even the revered Rabindranath Tagore drew censure for sending a token gift and benediction to the newlyweds. Despite the societal disapproval, Kanan Devi remained grateful to her spouse, acknowledging him for providing her with her initial social recognition through marriage. This episode also reflects the prevailing elitism in pre-Independence Calcutta.

In 1945, Kanan Devi filed for divorce, a consequence of her husband's opposition to her decision to exit the film industry. Undeterred, she sought a broader understanding of cinematic developments in the Western world, embarking on a journey abroad in 1947. During her vacation, she engaged with luminaries like Clark Gable, Spencer Tracy, and Robert Taylor in Hollywood. Upon her return, she resumed her professional career, working in a few films before venturing into film production with the establishment of her own company, Shrimati Productions.

Around 1949, Kanan Devi remarried Haridas Bhattacharjee, who served as the ADC to the Governor of Bengal at the time. Haridas left the Navy to support Kanan in her filmmaking pursuits and eventually became a proficient director. The couple collaborated on several Bengali films until Kanan's retirement in 1966. Blessed with their firstborn, Siddharth, Kanan Devi not only contributed to the film industry but also took on philanthropic roles. She founded and served as the president of Mahila Shilpi Mahal, an organization dedicated to assisting senior female artists and supporting charitable and community causes, including the advancement of Bengali cinema.

Honors

• In 1942, Kanan Devi earned the BFJA Award for Best Actress for her remarkable performance in "Parichaya," followed by another triumph in 1943 with the BFJA Best Actress Award for "Shesh Uttar."
• Recognizing her significant contributions to the cultural landscape, she was bestowed with the Padma Shri Award in 1968.
• The year 1976 brought another prestigious honor as Kanan Devi was conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema, acknowledging her outstanding lifetime achievements. Her multifaceted influence, extending beyond acting and singing, was further celebrated in 2011 when India's Ministry of State for Communication and Information Technology released a commemorative postage stamp featuring Kanan's likeness.

Death

Kanan Devi, the illustrious icon of Indian cinema, breathed her last in Calcutta on July 17, 1992, at the age of approximately 76. Her legacy endures, marked by a commemorative stamp issued in her honor in 2011. Beyond her contributions to the film industry, Kanan Devi was a fashion trendsetter, carving a niche as a successful film producer in the 1950s and 1960s. Her philanthropic endeavors extended to women in theatre and film-based welfare projects, showcasing her commitment to uplifting her peers.

A feminist ahead of her time, Kanan Devi fearlessly defied stereotypes, not only as a trailblazing artist but also as a shrewd businesswoman. Changing her name from Kanan Bala to Kanan Devi, she navigated a patriarchal society with resilience and determination, earning respect for her financial acumen. In an era when women's liberation was unheard of, she fought tirelessly for the recognition and esteem she rightfully deserved. Kanan Devi's life story is a testament to her indomitable spirit, challenging societal norms and paving the way for future generations in the realm of Indian cinema and beyond.

Conclusion

Kanan Devi, a trailblazer in the realm of Indian cinema, concluded her remarkable journey on July 17, 1992, in Calcutta. The legacy she left behind is profound, transcending her roles as a versatile actress, accomplished singer, and successful film producer. In addition to her memorable artistic contributions, Kanan Devi was a revered fashion icon and a dedicated philanthropist, tirelessly advocating for women in theatre and film-based welfare initiatives.

A feminist ahead of her time, she fearlessly defied entrenched societal norms, revealing a keen financial acumen in managing her investments. Renowned for her unwavering resilience, Kanan Devi not only left an indelible mark on the Indian entertainment industry but also compelled society to recognize and honor her rightful place. Her life remains a timeless inspiration, underscoring her pivotal role as a true pioneer in the rich tapestry of Indian entertainment history.