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Dev Anand’s First Love: The Heartbreaking Story of Suraiya
Suraiya, a beloved actress of the 1940s and 50s, was not just an iconic figure in Indian cinema but also the first love of legendary actor Dev Anand. Their romantic journey, however, was marked by familial opposition that ultimately led to a tragic separation.
The Rising Stars
During their time in the film industry, Suraiya and Dev Anand collaborated on several notable films, including “Sanam” and “Jeet.” They shared a strong on-screen chemistry that captivated audiences and hinted at a deeper connection off-screen, one that would become the subject of much public intrigue.
A Love That Faced Challenges
Despite marrying actress Kalpana Kartik later in life, Dev Anand’s heart belonged to Suraiya during his formative years. In his autobiography, “Romancing With Life,” he detailed the passionate love they shared and the desperate circumstances that tore them apart. The actress’s family, particularly her grandmother, strongly opposed their relationship. Dev revealed that Suraiya’s mother threatened severe consequences if their union were to materialize, which placed immense pressure on the couple.
The Final Encounter
Dev reminisced about their last meeting, which was orchestrated under dire circumstances. Suraiya’s mother arranged for him to sneak onto the terrace of her Marine Drive residence. Unsure if this was a trap, Dev enlisted the help of a police inspector friend to accompany him. While the officer waited discreetly nearby, Dev ascended to the terrace where he was able to embrace Suraiya one last time.
In his own words, Dev described this intimate moment, marking it as a memory “that lingered until eternity.” They exchanged heartfelt embraces and shared a kiss that felt monumental amidst the chaos surrounding their love. However, the joy of this meeting was soon overshadowed by tears and the daunting reality they faced.
A Heartbreaking Good-Bye
During their emotional exchange, Dev proposed to Suraiya, seeking to protect her from the familial strife that loomed over them. Suraiya, overwhelmed by the situation, responded affirmatively with her own declarations of love. Dev then gifted her an expensive engagement ring, hoping it would mark the beginning of their future together.
However, their hopes quickly turned to despair. Dev expressed his heartache at receiving no news from Suraiya in the following days. Attempts to reach her through mutual friends were thwarted by her family’s growing hostility towards their relationship. Suraiya’s grandmother, in particular, was adamant about ending any association with Dev, implying dire consequences if Suraiya continued to pursue him.
Eventually, under immense familial pressure, Suraiya made the devastating decision to end their relationship. In a heartbreaking gesture, she cast the engagement ring into the sea, signifying a complete break from their once passionate love story. Suraiya never married after their split and passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with both cinema and an unfulfilled love tale.
Reflections on a Lost Love
The story of Suraiya and Dev Anand is not just about unrequited love; it encapsulates the conflict between personal desires and familial obligations. Their romance remains a poignant reminder of the complexities that can arise from societal expectations, even in the glamorous world of film.
Source
www.news18.com