As their love story developed, it was met with opposition from Devayani’s parents. Choosing love, the couple decided to elope. On April 9, 2001, they married in a secret ceremony at the . The Aftermath

Interestingly, her real-life husband (Rajakumaran) and her most famous co-star (Vijay) look nothing alike. The public has always been torn: They wanted the Kadhalukku Mariyadhai Devayani—the village belle who dies for love—but they got the real Devayani—the fighter who survived a scandal.

Rajakumaran continued to direct Devayani in several projects, including Thirumathi Thamizh (2013).

Why do we still care about Devayani’s romantic storylines?

Devayani’s legacy in South Indian cinema is unique because her on-screen choices and off-screen life shared a common thread: .

While not a pure romance, her role in Vaali opposite Ajith Kumar and Simran is crucial. Devayani played the "ideal wife" caught between identical twins (one good, one evil). The romantic storyline was a study in violation. When the evil twin (Ajith) forces her to dance with him, pretending to be her husband, the romantic tension is terrifying. Devayani’s performance shifted the genre from romance to obsessive thriller, proving her range.

Vijay The Storyline: In this family drama, Devayani plays Priya, a divorcee with a child who falls for a rich, single hero (Vijay). The entire first half is about societal taboo—will his family accept a "used" woman? Why it’s iconic: Unlike her previous roles where she was a doormat, here Devayani showed steel. Her romantic storyline with Vijay was mature. They weren't teenagers giggling; they were adults dealing with judgment. Their chemistry in the song "Nenjinile" is a masterclass in subtle romance—eye locks and hesitant touches rather than melodrama.

Suryavamsam establishes her as the icon of supportive wives. The Catalyst

: Characters expressing love through subtle glances, domestic care, and unwavering loyalty. Iconic On-Screen Relationships and Chemistry

While she played opposite younger heroes, her pairing with veteran actor Karthik in Sollamale (1998) and Unnidathil Ennai Koduthen showcased a different shade of romance. Here, Devayani played equals to a more mature hero.

While her on-screen romances were legendary, Devayani's real-life relationship mirrored the high drama of a cinematic script.