Shekhar Suman says Pakistanis feel 'jealous' of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi'

Amid the fervor surrounding Sanjay Leela Bhansali's series Heeramandi, actor Shekhar Suman has stepped up to defend the filmmaker against criticism. Despite the show's title drawing from an actual location in Pakistan, Suman believes Bhansali's artistic vision transcends historical accuracy.

During a conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Suman addressed the criticisms directed at Heeramandi, labeling detractors as "stupid people" obsessed with historical precision. He praised Bhansali's ability to craft immersive cinematic worlds, emphasizing that the director's interpretation should be respected.

Asserting Bhansali's creative license, Suman remarked, "He hasn’t made a documentary on Heeramandi. He has just taken a cue from there."

In the same conversation, the actor shared, “Padosi mulk ke kuch log hain who are feeling very jealous about the fact ki inhone kyu bana dia? Bhai aap bana lete and why are you even discussing our Heeramandi?” 

In the series, Suman portrays Nawab Zulfikar, while his son Adhyayan Suman portrays the younger Zulfikar and Nawab Zorawar. Heeramandi features a star-studded cast including Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, and Manisha Koirala, set against the backdrop of undivided India.