MUMBAI: Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali talked about the decision to convey a story about Muslim people in Lahore in his first stream series, 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar'. He decided at a time when Pakistani artists continued to face barriers in India. He recognized the show's unifying aspect while still expressing gratitude for the support he received from Pakistani viewers.

(Also read: Exclusive! Fardeen Khan is going to play THIS role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi?)

In an interview with the popular news portal, Bhansali emphasized the warm reaction he received from Pakistani viewers, saying that they were excited to see the story told. He highlighted the inclusive message of the show and the common cultural connections between Pakistan and India. In response to possible disputes, the love and bond that both countries share should continue to be the major focus he made for this cultural project.

He stated, “There was so much love that I received from Pakistan, people waiting for it anxiously, waiting for this to be told. It’s a piece that somehow brings us all together when all India was one, it was undivided. These people belong to us as much as they belong to them. I think they belong to both of us and both countries are showing a lot of love for finally the show being made. I still feel we’re all one, I still feel that we’re all connected in so many ways. There’s a lot of love for people on both sides, leave aside a few people would want to create issues — but those are not relevant.”

While Bhansali acknowledged past challenges with his work, such as threats and attacks, he noted a positive reception to ‘Heeramandi’ without significant opposition during its creation. He emphasized the relatability of the characters and the varied reactions they elicit, welcoming both admiration and critique as part of the artistic process and audience engagement, “There are things in the characters that connect to people in my work. That is why they talk about it. A lot of people like it, a lot of people don’t like it. It’s a part of a give-and-take with an audience and filmmaker. I don’t mind being loved when they give me love, and I don’t mind quite being criticised when they don’t connect to my work.”

Bhansali previously discussed the project's beginnings, which involved collaborations with Pakistani talent such as Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, and Imran Abbas, as well as famous actors like Kareena Kapoor and Rekha. Manisha Koirala, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman were among the cast members when the show finally made its May 1 debut.

(Also read: Exclusive! Fardeen Khan is going to play THIS role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi?)

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Credit-News 18