They say all that glitters is not gold. But in celebrated auteur Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s cinema, every element is larger-than-life– from the sets to the star cast and, of course, the storytelling. So it is no surprise that his latest project, the much-anticipated period drama Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, in collaboration with Netflix, is more ambitious in scale.
The web series–with a stellar lineup of actors like Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Sharmin Segal, Shekhar Suman, Fardeen Khan, Adhyayan Suman, and Taha Shah Badussha–marks Bhansali’s foray into the OTT arena.
Since the trailer for Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar was released in April, there has been much curiosity about what's brewing in the sizzling red-light district, where Mallikajaan (Koirala) rules over an elite house of courtesans.
While she fears no one–tension simmers with the return of her late nemesis’ daughter, Fareedan (Sinha). Outside, the city is at the centre of a revolution demanding India's freedom from British rule. One of Mallikajaan’s daughters, Bibbojaan (Hydari), dives into this battle, while her youngest, Alamzeb (Segal), harbours dreams of love with the son of a nawab, Tajdar (Badussha).
Amid a backdrop of betrayal, forbidden desires, and India's pre-independence struggle, there's a clash of the titans–Mallikajaan and Fareedan–for the crown of the ‘queen’ of Heeramandi.
We chatted with the star cast of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar to learn more about each character, the experience of working with an ensemble cast, and more.
THE CHARACTER ARC
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Hijabi Hair, Don't Care
TLC for the mane, especially when it isn't visible to the world, transmutes it into an act of self-love for Hasina Jeelani
THE MANE ATTRACTION
When it comes to hair care, compromise simply isn't an option. With iluvia's expertly curated systems, you can cleanse, revive, and protect your hair without missing a beat. Let your locks thrive, from root to tip, with science-backed, innovative haircare ranges crafted for lasting shine, strength, and elegance.
ELLE Beauty Hall of Fame
Celebrating standout beauty products in every category, all earning ELLE's seal of approval through expert, editorial and public votes
FULL THROTTLE
F2 rising star Kush Maini on his racing journey & challenges in motorsport. Ekta Sinha hitches a ride
VIJAY VARMA MAN OF THE MOMENT
Amidst the barrage of releases, Vijay Varma's dignified reticence is enveloped in thoughtful consideration, reports Ipsita Kaul
ROHIT SARAF THE GEN Z STAR
The new generation heartthrob talks about his love for romcoms, music, and future endeavours with Ekta Sinha
Roaring RAJASTHAN
From Jawai's dramatic landscape and Jaisalmer's rich heritage to Ranthambore's enthralling wilderness-Isha Mayer explores SUJÁN's luxurious, eco-conscious hospitality offerings in the beautiful state
Ectoin: The Skin's New Defence
Krishika Bhatia explores a revolutionary skincare breakthrough that merges nature and science, featuring insights from industry experts
Nigella's WORLD
The British celebrity chef shares the secret recipe to her effortless charm in the kitchen with Isha Mayer
ADRIATIC DRIFT
Stari Grad is Croatia's hidden gem waiting to be explored, finds Isha Mayer