Review: For SLB's 'Heeramandi',all that glitters is gold with every performance being mesmerizing & bold

After delving into almost all of his works, especially his periodic sagas, it's safe to declare Sanjay Leela Bhansali as the epitome of magnificence. As we eagerly anticipate experiencing once more the enchantment he conjures with his storytelling and direction through "Heeramandi," every second of the wait proves worthwhile. SLB is the maestro who excels in the art of transporting you to the worlds he creates, almost as if teleporting you there himself. In 'Heeramandi: The Diamnond Bazar', his signature style creates a narrative into a magnum opus, prompting one to ponder: How much grandeur is too much grandeur?

Where to even begin? The tantalizing sets, the poignant acting, the soulful melodies, the enchanting aura—everything about 'Heeramandi' exudes spectacular magnificence that lingers long after the screen fades to black. While we're familiar with Bhansali's work, this web show format feels perfectly suited for him. Here, he's free to delve into layers upon layers of character depth, crafting a profoundness that effortlessly draws you into his world, leaving you utterly captivated. The series delves into the lives of tawaifs in the red-light district of Heera Mandi in Lahore during the Indian independence movement against the British Raj. What unfolds within are the internal feuds among the tawaifs, their family dramas, the power struggles, and the dirty politics surrounding control over the shahi mahal.

Once again, big kudos to Bhansali for his storytelling and the intricately crafted characters, along with the subplots woven around each of them. While discussions often revolve around 'men writing men' or 'women writing women,' Bhansali truly embodies the concept of 'men writing women' with finesse. His lens offers a refreshing perspective, steering clear of clichéd characterizations. Even the supporting roles, such as those portrayed by Fareeda Jalal, Jayati Bhatia, and the surprise appearance of Richa Chadha in a cameo, are written with such depth that they leave a lasting impact on the narrative.

What makes this series truly special is its female-centric focus, where women reign supreme just as they do in Heeramandi. The male characters serve merely as props to enrich the story. A portrayal of feminism with such grace, elegance, attention to detail, and power is indeed a testament to the irony and vision of what true women empowerment entails.

The narrative is so engrossing that you lose track of time until you've reached the end. The tawaifs' proficiency in Urdu and 'shudh' Hindi adds a delightful touch to the ears. Despite the challenge of holding the audience's attention amidst intense drama, SLB succeeds in striking the right chords. The sets, choreography, setting, and costumes are lavishly spectacular, as expected from Bhansali's productions. However, it's the casting and performances that truly shine.

Manisha Koirala as Mallika Jaan surpasses herself in this role, exemplifying what true acting means. She seamlessly fits into the character, displaying a wide range of emotions, from wit and cunningness to vulnerability and resilience. I remember getting goosebumps in the scene when she sat under the fountain after a traumatic incident. In another scene at the police station, where British officers force her to sing and dance while seeking her daughter's bail, Koirala's portrayal exudes raw emotion and soul, captivating viewers with her crackling voice and tearful dance.

Sonakshi Sinha as Fareedan is another revelation, captivating viewers with her performance from start to finish. The dynamic between Fareedan and Mallika Jaan adds depth to the narrative, showcasing Sinha's versatility.

Sanjeeda Sheikh's portrayal of Waheeda evokes genuine empathy, with her performance feeling authentic and effortless. Aditi Rao Hydari as Bibbo Jaan exudes elegance and depth. Sharmin, as Alamzeb, delivers a poised and effortless performance, although she occasionally falls short of conveying authentic emotions in crucial scenes. Richa Chadha's cameo as Lajjo leaves a lasting impression, making viewers yearning for more.

Fardeen Khan, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan don't have much to exhibit, but Taha Shah shines in his profound role as Tajdar. His chemistry with Alamzeb adds layers to his characterization. However, their love story feels underwhelming, marking the only low point of the series.

Overall, the entire cast delivers commendable performances, complemented by the show's masterful music, a trademark of Bhansali's productions. To truly appreciate the brilliance of SLB, one must experience this show firsthand—it's a magic that transcends mere words. 

The Verdict

Heeramandi" is a visual spectacle that mesmerizes with every frame, introducing viewers to the essence of finesse and conviction in acting. SLB's signature style creates a narrative into a magnum opus, prompting one to ponder: How much grandeur is too much grandeur?

Rating

****(4/5) stars