Adapted from Sarat Chandra Chaterjee's acclaimed novel, Devdas is about a man who loved and lost.

Born to a rich and prosperous family, Devdas (Shah Rukh Khan) is at odds with everything since childhood. The only person he confides in is his neighbour, best friend and soulmate Paro (Aishwarya Rai).

When Devdas' father sends him away to London for further studies, an anxious Paro waits for him in anticipation. On his return, their feelings for each other are rekindled. A timid Devdas is unable to convince his status-driven family that Paro is the girl he wants to marry. By the time he gathers the courage to propose Paro, she has already committed herself to aged landlord Bhuvan (Vijayendra Ghatge) in marriage.

Distraught, he hits the bottle and seeks solace in courtesan Chandramukhi's selfless friendship. Accustomed to constant flattery, Chandramukhi is struck by Devdas's indifference and eventually falls for him.