Sanjay Leela Bhansali addresses 'Heeramandi' criticism and alleged historical inaccuracies
Renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has responded to criticism regarding alleged historical inaccuracies in his latest project, Heeramandi. In a recent interview with Galatta Plus, Bhansali defended his approach to cinema. He emphasized that his work is motivated by the desire to provide audiences with an immersive experience rather than merely generating profit. Heeramandi is his foray into OTT and premiered on Netflix on May 1.
Bhansali elaborated on his creative process
Bhansali explained his creative process, stating that even though Heeramandi is set in a historical location, it is born from his imagination. He said, "It will still look like Lahore to you. I think it will still look like a road that I would want to go and buy ittar from." This approach extends to all his films, including Gangubai Kathiawadi, which was also a product of his imagination.
Bhansali's vision for 'Heeramandi' amid controversy
Ever since Heeramandi aired, critics and residents of the real-life location in Pakistan argue that the actual Hira Mandi bears no resemblance to Bhansali's depiction. Responding to this, he said, "It will still have the bricks which I feel have been baked enough and been drained of all the texture which is just so fascinating to look at." "I still have dressed it up with fountains and the works of painted floors."
Bhansali defended dramatic touch in his films
Bhansali defended the larger-than-life and dramatic touch in his films, stating, "My cinema will always have that dramatic touch and that larger-than-life approach, which is not subtle, which is not delicate, but it is heartfelt." He emphasized the importance of the visual aspect in his work, saying, "It has to be worthy of being there because I'm reliving a certain moment of my life, of this life, maybe past life."
Know more about the Netflix show
Centered on the backdrop of the Indian independence movement in the 1940s, Heeramandi delves into the stories of tawaifs residing in Lahore's red-light district, Heera Mandi. The series features a stellar cast including Manisha Koirala, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, and Sonakshi Sinha. The male ensemble features Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, Fardeen Khan, and Adhyayan Suman in supporting roles.
