The star-studded Next on Netflix India event in Mumbai was an electrifying showcase, unveiling the exciting 2024 lineup that left audiences exhilarated. Among the standout moments was the appearance of the heeras of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. The ladies graced the occasion with an air of elegance and poise, captivating everyone with their breathtaking presence on stage. Each character in Heeramandi embodies a unique strength, beautifully released in a special character poster that had attendees wanting more.
In a conversation with the witty and charismatic Zakir Khan, the cast expressed their excitement and anticipation for the project. Sonakshi Sinha fondly spoke about her experience working alongside Manisha Koirala, “Being in the same frame as Manisha ma’am was a pleasure. I have learned so much by just observing the way she has conducted herself on the sets. I hope to have another opportunity to work with her soon.”
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s first leading lady, Manisha Koirala reflected on her enduring collaboration with the filmmaker, “To be working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali for Heeramandi after his first film Khamoshi that is almost 25 years later, it cannot get better than that. It has been a humongous journey, I have seen him grow as an artist, he is a maestro and genius. He is India’s best and greatest filmmaker. We are lucky to have received this chance to work with him.”
Sharmin Segal shares, “To be working with Sanjay sir and watching him adapt to the series format is a completely different ballgame as an actor. It’s an eight-episode show so it was like working on eight films simultaneously. It was a privilege to be a part of it and to be able to execute his vision.” Furthermore, Sanjeeda Shaikh adds about her experience, “I had a dream as an actor to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali and it has been fulfilled. To be a part of Heeramandi is a big deal for me as an artist.”
Aditi Rao Hydari adds, “Sanjay sir’s soul goes into everything he does. There’s so much passion that he lives, breathes and eats his characters. I am grateful that he has challenged and pushed me to do my best because there’s so much pride and love in that.”
Richa Chadha fondly remembers meeting actor Rani Mukerji, who said to her on collaborating with the legendary filmmaker, “Till you don’t work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, you don’t know your own potential.”
