Conversation so far:
Did Devika Rani elope?
The two co-stars developed a romantic relationship, and during the shooting schedule of Jeevan Naiya, Devika eloped with Hassan.
When did this occur?
CANNOTANSWER.
What movie were they working on together?
Jeevan Naiya.
Why did they have to elope?
In the India of that era, divorce was legally almost impossible and women who eloped were regarded as no better than prostitutes and were shunned by their own families.
So one of them was already married?
In her heart of hearts, Devika Rani knew that she could not secure a divorce or marry Hassan under any circumstances.
She negotiated with her husband.
What was the negotiation?
seeking the separation of her finances from those of her husband as a condition for her return.
Henceforth, she would be paid separately for working in his films.
What was her family's reaction?
CANNOTANSWER.

Question: What was the public's reaction?
Self-contained rewrite: What was the public's reaction to Devika eloping?