Sanjay Leela Bhansali entered into the world of web series with Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. The series has finally hit the digital screens on Netflix this Wednesday. The director unveiled insights into the project during its grand Los Angeles premiere. He talked about his journey from envisioning it as a film to its transformation into a digital series.
Originally conceived 18 years ago, Bhansali harboured ambitions of crafting Heeramandi as a cinematic masterpiece, with veteran actresses Rekha, Kareena Kapoor, and Rani Mukerji in pivotal roles. However, the sheer expanse of the narrative rendered it impractical for the silver screen.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali Reveals Rekha, Kareena And Rani Were In His Mind For Heeramandi
During an engaging conversation with Lilly Singh at the premiere, Bhansali reminisced about the evolution of the project’s casting, revealing, “This was 18 years ago so at one point it was Rekha ji, Kareena, and Rani Mukerji. Then it changed into another cast, then it changed into another cast.” Despite initial plans involving Pakistani actors Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, and Imran Abbas, Bhansali eventually settled on a different ensemble.
Imran Abbas, in a prior interaction with ARY’s Shan-e-Suhoor, disclosed being approached for a role in Heeramandi, though the project faced a temporary halt. Reflecting on his involvement, Abbas mentioned, “I did not refuse that, but it was shelved at the time,” also hinting at an offer for a part in Bhansali’s Guzaarish.
Bhansali expressed satisfaction with the eventual cast and emphasised the extensive effort invested in the series. It took him nearly 3 years of production and over 300 days of filming to finish Heeramandi.
About Heeramandi & Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Work Front
Heeramandi boasts a star-studded lineup featuring Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah, Fardeen Khan, and Shekhar Suman, among others.
Looking ahead, Bhansali teased his upcoming cinematic venture, Love and War, featuring Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, and Vicky Kaushal. Alia, having collaborated with Bhansali in Gangubai Kathiawadi, and Ranbir, marking his debut with the director in Saawariya, are set to ignite the screen with their chemistry once again.
(Also read: Heeramandi Trailer: Netizens MOCK Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Series As They Point Out Major Loophole, Bad VFX!)
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