Latest Netflix magnum opus Heeramandi dazzles
Letter from New Delhi
By Kul Bhushan
Film maestro Sanjay Leela Bansali has surpassed himself with the latest Netflix series “Heeramandi,” released on May 1st. After watching the first two episodes, I was left breathless by the opulence of the sets, the costumes, jewellery, and above all, the acting. Manisha Koirala shines as the stunning Queen Bee of the courtesans, while Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao, Richa Chadda, and others deliver impressive performances.
The ambiance of the high life in Lahore a century ago draws viewers into the serial. Having spent the first eight years of my life in Lahore before the Partition, subtle references to this ambiance come to mind. The primary shopping bazaar in Lahore in those days was named Anarkali, after the beloved courtesan of the Mughal prince Salim, who succeeded Akbar. And the red-light district was known as Heera Mandi.
Many notable films have been made about red-light districts, including classics like “Pakeezah” with Meena Kumari, Rekha in “Umrao Jaan,” Shabana Azmi in “Mandi,” Aishwarya Rai in “Devdas,” Alia Bhatt in “Gangubai Kathiawadi,” and many more. However, this series sets a new standard in its eight episodes.
Each episode lasts almost an hour yet seems so short, such is the magnetism of this visual feast. Watch it to savour the elegance and sophistication of a bygone era. Right in the first few minutes, a grand dance performance in the courtyard of the haveli or mansion of the courtesans stuns the viewer with over a dozen gushing fountains spraying water, as the lead dancer performs on the path between the fountains and supporting dancers perform in lighted rooms on the ground and two floors. This opening remains a powerful indicator of what later unfolds.
Bansali’s attention to detail for the sets, the fashion statement, and jewellery is commendable yet expected considering his past film productions such as “Padmavati,” “Bajirao Mastani,” “Ram Leela,” and the iconic “Devdas.”
Soon, the main themes emerge: the infatuation of a virgin courtesan with a nawab, the battle between two competing Queen Bees played by Monisha Koirala and Sonakshi Sinha, and the struggle for independence from British rule. These three themes are expertly woven into the narrative with spicy dialogue, sharp repartee, and superb acting. Here, one wonders if Rekha, with her career highlight in “Umrao Jaan,” would have excelled in this role.
Right after its premiere, Heeramandi attracted warm accolades from viewers who were awed by its impact. Several celebrities, from Vicky Kaushal to Alia Bhatt, praised the series. Vicky said, “Loved every song, every visual, and it’s not just the visuals.” Influencer Kusha Kapila wrote, “The collective acting prowess of the cast and the women they represent hits home. The characters are deliciously flawed and fierce when they need to be. Every frame makes you gasp.”
However, not all viewers are as ecstatic, as a top socialite and social media regular wrote, “I found it hollow, vacuous, contrived, over the top… all sound and fury signifying nothing.”
Despite this, according to overwhelming popular response, Heermandi remains a magnum opus.
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 3 May 2024
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