Information Madness

Dev Anand left us this morning. He was the original style icon of Bollywood. He has scripted a fashion statement through the ages, particular in the nineteen fifties and the nineteen sixties with his scarves, mufflers, jackets and his iconic puff. He admitted once that he was fashioning himself after his childhood ideal Gregory Peck.

No one can come close to him in Bollywood for setting trends as a pioneer in Bollywood fashion. His stylish wardrobe enhanced his good looks and gave a boost to his romantic image on the screen. Girls swooned over him. There was a time when female fan following reached such a frenzied pitch that some mentals even started sending him letters in their blood. Women just loved his black suit. There was a time that people requested him not to wear a black suit in public to disturb the peace of the surroundings.

He gave a new meaning to mufflers and took them that extra mile. He gave them worldwide recognition and in various forms. He was setting a new style with each film of his. `Hum Dono’ won him a National Award. `Guide’ brought him accolades. `Jewel Thief’ and his famous cap took him to greater heights. He continued his stylish journey in films like `Hare Rama Hare Krishna’ and `Heera Panna’.

He created a sensation when he wore his striped black trousers with his cap worn on one side, bright cardigans and scarves tied round his neck. We cannot forget his effortless fashion setting of wearing sweaters on his shoulders. This became a rage in India. When we talk about retro recognition in Bollywood, Dev Anand is the only actor that comes to mind. He also had a great impact on the youth of the country with his puffed hair style.

Many designers have been influenced by him and his style. Along with Yusuf Khan (Dilip Kumar) he was one of the earliest pioneers of the buttoned up look.