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- By Ridhi Suri
- Wed, 01 May 2024 01:59 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
May 1, marks the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s highly-anticipated series, Heeramandi, on Netflix. Starring Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Manisha Koirala in pivotal roles, the series has generated significant buzz. However, the director disclosed that the initial casting choices differed from the final lineup. During the Los Angeles premiere of the high-budget show, he discussed his creative vision, revealing that his initial plan was to create it as a film starring Rekha, Kareena Kapoor, and Rani Mukerji. The director explained that he had been nurturing the concept of Heeramandi for 18 years, but due to the story's vastness, the film adaptation did not come to fruition.
SLB revealed Heeramandi, the series is situated in pre-Independence Lahore -- delving into the realm of courtesans and nawabs, was planned 18 years ago. "This was 18 years ago, at one point it was Rekha ji, Kareena and Rani Mukerji. Then it changed into another cast. It was Mahira Khan, the Pakistani actress, at one point, with Imran Abbas and Fawad Khan. But that changed." Expressing shock, the host listened as Bhansali explained that his original concept for Heeramandi was envisioned as a film.
About Heeramandi
Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is period drama television series conceived by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The narrative revolves around the existence of tawaifs within the district of Heera Mandi in Lahore amidst the backdrop of the Indian independence movement against the British Raj. The ensemble cast includes Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, and Sharmin Segal, with Bhansali and Mitakshara Kumar serving as directors.
Fardeen Khan, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman also feature in the series, portraying the roles of the Nawabs. It dives into the lives of tawaifs during the tumultuous period of the 1940s Indian independence movement against British rule, set within the confines of Lahore's Heera Mandi. The trailer, unveiled last month, immerses viewers in an era where courtesans held sway like royalty.