Mumbai, Acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s highly anticipated web series “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar” is set to debut on the streaming giant Netflix on May 1.
The unveiling of the premiere date took place during a spectacular drone light show event at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in South Mumbai.
A glimpse into the captivating universe of “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar”, marking Bhansali’s foray into the digital realm, was showcased through formations created by drones against the evening sky.
The event witnessed the presence of the series’ ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, and Sanjeeda Sheikh, along with Prerna Singh, CEO of Bhansali Productions, and Tanya Bami, Director of Series, Netflix India.
Described as an epic narrative of love, authority, vengeance, and liberation, the series delves into the cultural intricacies of ‘Heeramandi’, an opulent precinct, narrating tales of courtesans and their patrons within the tumultuous backdrop of India’s struggle for independence in the 1940s.
Reflecting on the creation of the dream-like ambiance in “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar”, Sinha remarked, “We were completely engrossed in his world, it was surreal, magnificent, and utterly captivating. As actors, it was an unparalleled experience.”
She further added, “The lesson we learned from working with him is that regardless of one’s proficiency, he always extracts something superior from you.”
Chadha, who collaborated with Bhansali in 2013’s “Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela”, commended the director for his meticulousness.
“… Nothing can be approached with half-heartedness. Every aspect, be it dialogue delivery, performance, choreography, music, everything demands your utmost dedication. He even pays attention to every background actor. It’s an enriching experience to collaborate with him. We all evolved as performers,” she expressed.
“I believe his dedication to his craft is unparalleled,” added Koirala, who collaborated with Bhansali on his directorial debut “Khamoshi: The Musical” in 1996.
Aditi Rao Hydari, another star of “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar”, was absent from the event due to her wedding to longtime partner, actor Siddharth, earlier in the day.
The series, conceptualized by Moin Beg, is helmed and produced by Bhansali himself.
