Dev on Shobhshree: “I Don’t Want Her Honour Tarnished, She’s a Mother of Two”

On 14 August, the film “Dhumketu” was released, marking the return of the Dev–Shobhshree pairing on the big screen after nearly a decade. While the film was a success, the on-screen chemistry between the duo changed after its release. Recently, a comment made by Dev sparked Shobhshree’s irritation, to which she responded appropriately, prompting significant discussion on social media.

When asked whether Shobhshree was cast in “Dhumketu” because Dev had promised to feature her in his first production, Dev explained: “If Shobhshree had not suited the character, perhaps she could have been offered a different role, but not the main lead.”

In a related podcast, Shobhshree had remarked: “I don’t understand how a sensitive person could make such a comment. I never have an issue with supporting roles; the character is what matters to me. But in 2025, for a promotional interview, to make such a disrespectful comment about a heroine you’re promoting a film with… I really don’t know.”

Addressing the situation, Dev said: “The more love there is, the more sensitivity comes with it. I believe Shobhshree’s comment stemmed entirely from affection. During the one-hour interview, she spoke about me repeatedly. That comes from love, not otherwise. She focused on just one line.”

He added: “From the very first interview, I’ve acknowledged how she handles family and work. During the whole promotion, I treated her like a superstar. When my team created a song for me, I insisted it should also be made for her. Because she is a superstar. I even dedicated the song to her—doesn’t that show respect?”

On the specific comments that triggered the controversy, Dev clarified: “I was asked whether I would cast Shobhshree if Dhumketu were made today. I would have included her because she was promised a role in my production. The character she played ten years ago suited her. But if casting today, and someone else deserved the part more, I would cast them. I also mentioned I would not have cast myself, as I lack that particular quality now.”

Dev categorically denied ever suggesting that Shobhshree lost her charm due to motherhood: “I never said she lost her simplicity because she has two children, despite how it’s being portrayed. Fourteen years ago, when she said she cried in the bathroom, I said nothing. I endured everything. Today, I still won’t comment negatively because respecting her is paramount. If I spoke badly about her now, it would harm her. Her honour is linked to mine.”

He concluded: “I always want Shobhshree’s honour to remain intact. She has much to lose. I have always maintained my own margin and spoken just enough to enhance her respect. To me, she will always be a superstar. When she says she’s a mother of two, that’s not a loss of innocence—it’s something to be proud of. I see how gracefully she is handling everything. If people start picking it apart now, there’s nothing more to say.”

Key Points

Dev’s statements underline his commitment to honouring Shobhshree’s dignity while clarifying misunderstandings surrounding the film’s promotion and her role in it.