'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' connects India and Pakistan, says Bhansali
Renowned Indian filmmaker, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, has recently launched a streaming series that highlights the shared cultural heritage of India and Pakistan. Titled Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, the series delves into the lives of Muslim characters in Lahore, a city in Pakistan. Despite challenges faced by Pakistani artists in India, Bhansali's work has been warmly received by Pakistani viewers, leading him to state that his show "brings us all together."
'There was so much love that I received from Pakistan...'
Speaking to IndieWire, Bhansali expressed his gratitude for the affection he received from his Pakistani fanbase. "There was so much love that I received from Pakistan, people waiting for it anxiously, waiting for this to be told." The filmmaker emphasized that Heeramandi unites audiences from both nations by revisiting a time before India's partition. "These people belong to us as much as they belong to them...both countries are showing a lot of love for finally the show being made."
Bhansali's 'Heeramandi' faced no resistance despite controversies
Bhansali, known for facing significant turmoil during the production of his previous film Padmaavat, revealed that he encountered no resistance while producing Heeramandi. The series notably does not feature any non-Muslim or Sikh characters of significance. Regarding audience feedback, Bhansali stated, "There are things in the characters that connect to people in my work. That is why they talk about it." He reiterated how he values both praise and critique from viewers.
'Heeramandi' features prominent Indian actors
Bhansali had initially revealed plans to cast prominent actors from both India and Pakistan for Heeramandi. However, the final ensemble included well-known Indian actors such as Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Fardeen Khan. The series premiered on Wednesday and has been warmly received.
