Indian director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, renowned for his extravagant storytelling and grand sets, fulfilled a 20-year dream with the release of his Netflix series, Heeramandi. Initially conceived as a film, the series underwent various casting considerations over the years, including contemplation of Pakistani stars Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, and Imran Abbas.
During the premiere of the series in Los Angeles, a video of which is circulating online, Bhansali guided YouTuber Lilly Singh through the evolution of the project. “This was 18 years ago, so at one point, it was Rekha ji, Kareena [Kapoor Khan], and Rani Mukerji. Then it changed into another cast, then it changed into another cast.”
He then surprised everyone by revealing that Pakistani actors were also considered for Heeramandi. “At one point, it was also Mahira Khan, the Pakistani actor, then Fawad Khan and Imran Abbas. But then it all changed.”
The transition of Heeramandi from a cinematic film to a Netflix series naturally impacted its casting dynamics. After all, actors accustomed to one medium—whether film, TV, or OTT—may not necessarily excel in others.
Bhansali expressed contentment with the final cast of his series, who dedicated approximately 350 days to the project. He noted that “popular actors” might not have been able to commit to such an extensive schedule.
Abbas had previously mentioned on ARY Digital’s Shaan-e-Suhoor, “I had not said no to Heeramandi but it got shelved.”
With Heeramandi, which premiered on Netflix today, Bhansali seeks to delve into the lives of courtesans in the pre-independence era, against the backdrop of Lahore’s rich cultural heritage. The series promises to be replete with drama, intrigue, and the emotional depth characteristic of Bhansali’s films.
