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ENTERTAINMENT EYE FEBRUARY 16, 2024 | The Indian Eye 38

In ‘Heeramandi’, Bhansali creates an opulent,

larger-than-life slice of forgotten history

Ted Sarandos of Netflix and Sanjay Leela Bhansali come together in Mumbai to

exchange insights on the expanding world of Indian and global storytelling

OUR BUREAU
Mumbai

ilmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali is all set
to make his OTT debut with ‘Heeramandi:
FThe Diamond Bazaar’ web show. On Tues-
day, an intriguing asset of the show was unveiled.
Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha,
Sanjeeda Sheikh and Sharmin Segal formed an en-
semble cast of ‘Heeramandi’ world.
The series is set in the midst of multiple pow-
er struggles in Heeramandi, Lahore (now part of
Pakistan) and more generally in undivided, pre-in-
dependence India, where anti-colonial freedom
movements were emerging.
Sharing the first look on Instagram, Netflix
India wrote in the caption, “Here’s your first look
at legendary Indian creator Sanjay Leela Bhansa-
li’s first series EVER: Heeramandi: The Diamond
Bazaar!”
‘Heeramandi’ has been Bhansali’s one of the
most important projects. Talking about it, Bhansali
earlier said, “This is an epic, first-of-its-kind series
based on the courtesans of Lahore. It is an ambi-
tious, grand and all-encompassing series; there-
fore I am nervous yet excited about making it. I
am looking forward to my partnership with Netflix
and bringing Heeramandi to audiences all over the
world.”
The makers described the show as “a mix A still from ‘Heeramandi’ (ANI)
of love, betrayal, succession, and politics in the
kothas (house of courtesans).” and series, the global scale of their vision, and dis- Bhansali not once but twice. Richa said ,”Sanjay
‘Heeramandi’, which will be out on OTT this cussed their ambition to continue creating mem- sir is a visionary, magician, storyteller... I have
year, is Bhansali’s world, where aesthetics meet op- orable entertainment that stays with people long never felt so stretched out of my comfort zone as
ulence. The director, along with, Netflix’s co-CEO after they’ve experienced it. They gave us a peek a performer. So many times, I go on a set and the
Ted Sarandos unveiled the first glimpse of his first into their own all-time favourite stories and inspi- director tells me ‘app to kar hi logi, you were so
global drama series, ‘Heeramandi’ on Saturday. ration that guided their lives. The conversation on great in this film, that film. Honestly, i feel like
‘Heeramandi’ promises Sanjay Leela Bhansa- creativity ended with the unveiling of the teaser of saying that was 10 years ago, I am not the same
li’s signature style of larger-than-life stories, intri- ‘Heeramandi.’ person I was even one year ago. i have evolved,
cate and soulful characters, and rippling dynamics In praise of Bhansali’s vision, Sarandos said, I have grown. I am a director’s actor, I love be-
of a world rife with conflict during a defining time “At Netflix, we take pride in partnering with the ing pushed to my maximum potential. I like to be
period for India. Like all of the auteur’s creations, best creators from around the world. Sanjay Leela challenged till my throat is dry and i have nausea
‘Heeramandi’ will have unique compositions and Bhansali is a true visionary, and we are thrilled to from nervousness.”
music that linger with the audience, just like his collaborate with him.” She added, “And hence, I loved working with
stories. Alia Bhatt can’t wait to watch filmmaker San- Sanjay sir as he is so respectful of collaboration.
Ted Sarandos and Sanjay Leela Bhansali came jay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond He doesn’t suffer fools easily and has high stan-
together in Mumbai to exchange insights on the Bazaar’. Taking to Instagram story, Ali shared the dards. I’d rather work with a taskmaster who holds
expanding world of Indian and global storytelling, video and wrote, “Pure magic. Can not wait!!!!” himself to a high standard than a director who
how variety and diversity in stories were evolving After ‘Goliyon Ki Rasleela - Ram Leela’ film, coddles me but makes a shit film. Being associated
audiences’ tastes and its impact on viewing habits actor Richa Chadha who is working with director with SLB and his project in any capacity is always
worldwide. During the sit-down, the two discussed Sanjay Leela Bhansali in his upcoming debut se- an honour. And I feel lucky that I got that chance
innovative formats, creative collaborations and the ries on a global OTT platform ‘Heeramandi’ ex- twice, the first one being Goliyon Ki Rasleela -
need to nurture creativity. pressed how lucky she is to be part of this project. Ram Leela. But Heeramandi will always be special
The pair indulged in their shared love for films Sharing about her experience working with place since it is one of many firsts. You will see.”

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