Renowned for his opulent filmmaking and grand narratives, Sanjay Leela Bhansali is set to make his mark in the world of streaming with his upcoming Netflix series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. This ambitious project marks Bhansali’s first foray into the realm of series production, and Netflix, the streaming giant, is backing the venture with full support. The star-studded cast includes Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Richa Chadha, and Sanjeeda Sheikh.
Following the success of his recent directorial venture, Gangubai Kathiawadi, which garnered acclaim and awards for Alia Bhatt, Bhansali’s Heeramandi promises to provide a glimpse into the lives of courtesans, set against the backdrop of pre-independence India.
Positioned as a historical drama, Heeramandi will transport viewers back to the 1940s, immersing them in the vibrant diamond market of Lahore’s walled city. Once a cultural center during the Mughal era, the area transformed into a hub of prostitution during British colonial rule. The series aims to explore the intricate personal and political dynamics between courtesans and their clients during the tumultuous Freedom Movement of the 1940s.
A labour of love for Bhansali, Heeramandi has been in the making for 14 years. The director expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, Heeramandi is an important milestone in my journey as a filmmaker. This epic series, a first of its kind, is based on the courtesans of Lahore. It is ambitious, grand, and all-encompassing, making me both nervous and excited about creating it. I look forward to partnering with Netflix and bringing Heeramandi to audiences worldwide.”
Judging by the initial glimpses of the series, Bhansali has spared no expense in its production. According to reports from News18 and Times of India, Netflix has invested a substantial Rs 200 crore in the historical drama. Bhansali reportedly takes home a director’s fee ranging from Rs 60 to 65 crore.
The remaining budget will be allocated to production costs and compensation for the cast. While earlier reports suggested that veteran actor Mumtaz was approached for a significant role in the series, she declined the offer.
Heeramandi is poised to join the Netflix streaming library soon, promising audiences a visual and narrative spectacle that reflects Bhansali’s signature style in the digital realm.
