Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus web series ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’ hit Netflix on May 1.
The movie maverick, who spent 18 years on the story before bringing it to the audience as his OTT debut has worked for months building the sets in Mumbai’s Film City.
The series, comprised of 8 episodes, immerses viewers in a meticulously crafted rendition of Lahore from the early 1900s, capturing the era’s essence with unparalleled detail.
From the lavish lifestyle of the Tawaifs to the intricate calligraphy adorning city walls and storefronts, every aspect of Heeramandi takes viewers back in time, making everyone relive the bygone era.
For instance this hamam - where Sharmin Segal loses one of the 101 pearls and is ordered by her mother Manisha Koirala to find it or she will have her friend sold off.
The jewellery also played a significant part in the making of the show. There were several scenes where ornaments were used to make a statement. For example, Sonakshi sells Manisha’s son for a life away from the brothel in exchange for an expensive necklace.
The clothes designed by Rimple and Harpreet speak volumes of Bhansali’s aesthetic for his actors and the scenes in the show.
What's remarkable is the dedication behind the scenes, as it's revealed that hundreds of workers dedicated nearly 10 months to recreate the Lahore of yesteryears under Bhansali's vision.
Initially conceived as a 14-page concept by Bhansali's friend, Moin Beg, two decades ago, the project underwent a transformative journey before making its way to the screen.
Bhansali's decision to adapt it for a series format allowed for the exploring of many characters and narratives, breathing life into a world rich in history and culture.
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