Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi has faced a barrage of criticism and trolls since its release on Netflix a week ago. As one of the most highly anticipated series of 2024, expectations were high for this creation from a filmmaker known for his visually stunning frames. However, there were numerous missteps in the web series set in Lahore during the 1940s, exploring the lives of Tawaifs who referred to themselves as the Queens of Lahore. Despite enduring harsh criticism, Heeramandi is struggling to receive the respect that any Bhansali film deserves. Could it be that a mistake was made? After extensive research and considering the perspectives of the actors and director, two major blunders have emerged that prevented Heeramandi from achieving its potential.
Heeramandi – The Film
In a recent interview, Bhansali revealed that he originally conceived the story as a film, and in hindsight, it becomes clearer. Those who watched the series may have felt that the storyline was stretched and the plots scattered, lacking coherence. Despite each Tawaif of the Shahi Mahal receiving an individual episode, none of their stories had a proper beginning, end, or sense of urgency. These episodes merely showcased the evil rivalries and constant scheming.
Heeramandi – The OG Cast! The original cast of this web series was entirely different and boasted the iconic Umrao Jaan, Rekha, as Mallika Jaan! Yes, you read that correctly. Rekha was initially supposed to portray Mallika Jaan, while Rani Mukerji was likely intended for the role of Bibbo Jaan, and Kareena Kapoor Khan for Fareedan. Additionally, Bhansali envisioned Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan as the lead couple, Alamzeb and Tajdar, with Pakistani actor Imran Abbas playing a significant role in the film. One can imagine as to how the masterpiece that Heeramandi could have been. Sometimes blunders occur due to minor miscalculations, it seems! Stay tuned for more only with us on this and others.
