Review of ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’: The cinematic brilliance of Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s highly anticipated OTT debut, “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar,” is a sprawling, sparkling series that showcases the director’s signature grandeur and storytelling prowess on the streaming platform. Set in pre-Independence Lahore, the series delves into the lives of the legendary tawaifs (courtesans) and their power struggles, intertwined with the larger freedom struggle against the British.
Storyline and themes:
“Heeramandi” weaves together history, mythology, and Bhansali’s distinctive style, which can be traced back to his 2002 film “Devdas”. The narrative centers around the legendary rivalry between the imperious Madam Mallikajaan (Manisha Koirala) and Fareedan (Sonakshi Sinha), who returns to reclaim her birthright after being banished as a child. The series explores themes of freedom, love, brothels, and jealousy with profound depth, offering a nuanced portrayal of its stellar ensemble cast.
Performances and direction:
Manisha Koirala delivers a riveting performance as Mallikajaan, using her raddled beauty and iron will to dominate her flock. Sonakshi Sinha excels as the woman bent on revenge, while Aditi Rao Hydari shines as Bibbojaan. Richa Chadha adds a spark to the proceedings with her portrayal of the deranged courtesan Lajjo. The supporting cast, including Fardeen Khan, Shekhar Suman, and Jason Shah, delivers commendable performances.
Bhansali’s direction is a testament to his storytelling prowess in the streaming era. The long format allows him to delve deeper into the characters and their world without being confined by cinematic trappings. The series showcases his signature grandeur while breaking free from cinematic constraints, offering a unique blend of kotha politics and historical context.
Cinematic elements:
“Heeramandi” is a visual treat, with Bhansali’s signature shine and glitter bathing the frames. The camerawork and artistic detailing in each frame are unprecedented in Bollywood. The series also features Bhansali’s trademark incorporation of classical dance, with Sakal Aban being a standout musical and choreographic piece.
Final words:
“Heeramandi” is a well-rounded series that delivers cinematic brilliance on the OTT platform. Bhansali’s debut on Netflix showcases his storytelling prowess and ability to weave together history, mythology, and raw human emotions. While the series may falter in its portrayal of young love, it more than makes up for it with its captivating performances, intricate detailing, and Bhansali’s signature style.
Overall, “Heeramandi” is a must-watch for fans of Sanjay Leela Bhansali and those seeking a blend of entertainment and meaningful storytelling on the streaming platform.