Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 29 : Shekhar Suman, who is all set to portray the character of Zulfiqar Ahmed in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's directorial web series 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar', opened up about how this opportunity knocked on his door when he was not expecting it. Shekhar's character Zulfiqar Ahmed, is a man of authority, whose mere presence exudes power and sophistication. Talking about his experience working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Shekhar Suman told ANI, "As an artist, you desire to work with a well-known directors. I got a chance to work with him, but on every step, on every path, a person learns something. But when he comes with a good filmmaker, he climbs many steps. So I feel that when I started this work in Heeramandi, me it was enough for me to do even one scene. Because to be seen in this environment and to do something is a big thing in itself. But there is also a connection to it. This opportunity came to me that time when I was not expecting it."Shekhar is double excited as not only he but also his son Adhyayan Suman is part of this project.Adhyayan portrays Zorawar Ali Khan, an arrogant 'nawab' of considerable wealth whose pursuits are driven solely by his self-interest.On working alongside his son in this series, Shekhar said, "I felt so happy when Adhyayan got this project. There were mixed feelings on the sets as I was there as a father, an actor, and a character. I was observing him from three points of view. It is a great feeling when two actors go out for work from the same house."Set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, the project promises to be an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom.Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal and Taha Shah Badussha, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1 on Netflix.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 29 : Actor Adhyayan Suman, who is all set to make a comeback with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar', expressed his joy about working with the renowned director. In a conversation with ANI, Adhyayan said, "I still feel like I'm living a dream. I never thought I would get the opportunity to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. I realized that in life, until we dream, things won't come true. It was a surreal experience to work with the director who obviously was on my bucket list.Fondly recalling the significant impact of Bhansali's movie 'Gangubai Kathiawadi,' Adhyayan said, "I remember when I went to watch Gangubhai, I was so immersed. Of course, I love all his films, but after watching Gangubhai, I especially felt like, "Will I ever get the chance to work with him?" And just a few months later, or maybe after a year, I got a call from Shruti Mahajan Ji, telling me about the audition for Heeramandi...""But you can never decode God's planning, and two months later, when I stopped thinking about all this, I got a call saying that I'm mostly going to be doing that role. And I couldn't believe it because someone else had been signed... and next thing you know, I was on set... so yes, I believe in miracles...," added the actor.The actor who is best known for movies like, 'Haal-e-Dil,' 'Raaz 2' and Bekhudi also shared his gratitude towards director Sanjay Leela Bhansali for acknowledging his performance."That was a badge of honor for me... it was like a medal for me... it's bigger than any award for me... because when no one wanted to open a door in the industry for me, he held my hand and gave me such a big opportunity... he gave me such a big platform... he has given me as much importance as everyone else... I will be grateful to him for life...," he said.As the clock ticks closer to the much-anticipated release date, 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' stands poised to enthral audiences with its spellbinding tale set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s.Through the stories of courtesans and their patrons, the series delves deep into the cultural reality of Heeramandi. Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1 on Netflix.

Los Angeles [US], April 29 : Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is celebrated for his storytelling and compelling narratives, recently mesmerized audiences in with a special showcase of his films. The Aero Theatre was turned into a haven for Bhansali's cinematic creations, focusing on his movie, 'Gangubai Kathiawadi.'American Cinematheque organized the event at the Aero Theatre, attracting movie enthusiasts from various backgrounds to enjoy Bhansali's films. The theatre was packed, especially for 'Gangubai Kathiawadi.'After watching Gangubai Kathiawadi, attendees got a sneak peek of Bhansali's web series, Netflix's 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar,' set to release on May 1.Exclusive scenes not seen before intrigued the audience, giving them a glimpse of another masterpiece in progress.Apart from this, there was also an intimate discussion with the filmmaker, offering a deeper understanding of his creative process and themes.While addressing the audiences Bhansali spoke about the inspiration behind his portrayal of strong female characters.He said, "On strong female characters in my films, yes we come from a land where we worship the Goddess. I have seen some very, very strong women all my life. Women need to be heard, women need to be seen, and their stories need to be told. They are the creators of mankind. We are all born to women-kind."Just last week, Netflix India hosted a grand premiere for Bhansali's debut web series 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' which was attended by Bollywood celebrities including Salman Khan, Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal, Rekha and Genelia Deshmukh.Set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar promises to be an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom. Through the stories of courtesans and their patrons, the series delves deep into the cultural reality of Heeramandi. Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Fardeen Khan Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 26 : Amidst the buzz surrounding the much-anticipated release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut web series 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar', actor Aditi Rao Hydari offered a glimpse into her journey portraying the character of Bibbojaan in the project.As she steps into the enchanting world of 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar', Aditi unveils the layers of her character, describing Bibbojaan as a figure adorned with innocence, loyalty, and a heart as soft as the morning dew.Expressing her heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable mentorship and love she received during the filmmaking process, Aditi fondly recalls her experiences working alongside the visionary director."Sanjay sir is not just a filmmaker, he's a beacon of inspiration. His guidance transcends mere instruction; it's akin to a gentle hand leading you through the labyrinth of creativity," she shared in an interview with ANI.In the ethereal realm of 'Heeramandi', where every glance tells a story and every whisper holds a secret, Aditi finds herself immersed in a tapestry of emotions and narratives woven by Bhansali's masterful hands. "His characters breathe life into the screen, each one a testament to his unparalleled craftsmanship," Aditi said.As the clock ticks closer to the much-anticipated release date, 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' stands poised to enthral audiences with its spellbinding tale set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s.Through the stories of courtesans and their patrons, the series delves deep into the cultural reality of Heeramandi.Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha KoiralaSonakshi SinhaRicha ChadhaSanjeeda SheikhSharmin SegalTaha Shah BadusshaShekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1 on Netflix.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 25 : The long wait to watch Fardeen Khan back on screen is almost over. The actor, who has entertained audiences with films like 'No Entry' and 'Heyy Babyy', is returning to acting after almost 12-13 years. Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut web series 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' marks Fardeen's first acting project post his break. In a recent interview with ANI, Fardeen opened up about his comeback, saying he feels like a "newcomer". "I am quite excited but extremely nervous as well. A lot has changed in these 12 years...The level of films has changed. The way people consume cinema has changed... Today, there's completely a new generation so I feel like a newcomer. I feel fortunate that I got a chance to work with good people with this 'Heeramandi' show. I have two more pictures that will be released this year... I am really thankful to the audience have trusted me," he said. He last appeared on the big screen in Dulha Mil Gaya. The actor had gone on a sabbatical, being completely off movies and even social media.In his comeback project, he will be seen essaying the role of Wali Mohammed.At the trailer launch of the show in the national capital recently, Fardeen said that his onscreen character is a "true romantic." He added, "For Wali Mohammad, he didn't allow the power, ambition, status and wealth to corrupt his heart. He kept his heart intact and for him, love was the focus of his life. He was a true romantic. I got a thing or two from him."He also shared how Bhansali allows actors to "bring depth to the roles."Fardeen added, "For me, this was something I have never done and it was the perfect role for me. At the age I am, to come back to the screen, you come with a certain amount of life experience, and wisdom and you know you can you can contribute to the layers that Sanjay writes into all his characters. His characters are very intricate and very complex. There's nobody like him who writes characters. He goes across the spectrum and emotions, and he has this intuitive understanding of it. It's daunting to work with him, but at the same time, when you see it all together, it just all makes sense. I'm extremely grateful for this chance and so happy to be here."Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1 on Netflix. Set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, the project promises to be an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 25 : Actor Fardeen Khan, who is all set to make a comeback after a hiatus of 14 years with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut web series 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar', received best wishes from actress Genelia Deshmukh.Taking to Instagram stories, Genelia shared a photo from the premiere night of 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar'.Genelia and Fardeen posed happily together for the camera.Sharing the image, she wrote, "Wishing you all the best Fardeen Khan for Heeramandi all our love to you."Genelia and Fardeen have worked together in 'Life Partner'.She also posted a picture with Bhansali and captioned it, "Just saw 2 episodes of Heeramandi and it has me craving for more...what a world. what a journey you take us through to Sanjay sir..mesmerised as always loved loved loved the entire cast and what a super effort by the crew too @netflix this is truly special."The premiere night of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's much-anticipated debut web series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar turned into a dazzling affair as several Bollywood stars graced the event on Wednesday in Mumbai.From veteran actress Rekha to superstar Salman Khan, actress Alia Bhatt, Mrunal Thakur, Vicky Kaushal, several stars gathered together to root for Bhansali and his 'Heeramandi' team.Recently, during the grand trailer launch of the show in the national capital, he opened up about his role as Wali Mohammad in 'Heeramandi. He also got a little emotional while talked about his return to the acting space after a long time."It's been a very long gap for me, it's been almost 14 years. I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity. I couldn't have hoped for a better opportunity as an actor to return to the screen," said Fardeen, who was last seen in 2010's 'Dulha Mil Gaya.'He also shared how Bhansali allows actors to "bring depth to the roles."Fardeen added, "For me, this was something I have never done and it was the perfect role for me. At the age I am, to come back to the screen, you come with a certain amount of life experience, and wisdom and you know you can you can contribute to the layers that Sanjay writes into all his characters. His characters are very intricate and very complex. There's nobody like him who writes characters. He goes across the spectrum and emotions, and he has this intuitive understanding of it. It's daunting to work with him, but at the same time, when you see it all together, it just all makes sense. I'm extremely grateful for this chance and so happy to be here."Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1.Set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, the project promises to be an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 25 : Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth, who recently announced their engagement, turned heads at the star-studded premiere of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' in Mumbai.Aditi dazzled in a vibrant ethnic attire, adorned with elegant long earrings, enhancing her look. Siddharth looked dashing in a sleek black traditional ensemble, paired with well-coordinated shoes. The adorable duo was seen happily posing for photographs, holding hands, as they made their way into the screening venue.Reports of the duo getting married were doing the rounds on social media, but there was no confirmation from either of the actors or their representatives.Aditi and Siddharth recently shared the news of their engagement with an adorable picture.Sharing the picture, she wrote, "He said yes! E. N. G. A. G. E. D."Aditi and Siddharth have remained tight-lipped about their relationship. If reports are to be believed, the two fell in love with each other on the sets of their film, Maha Samundram in 2021.Aditi was previously married to actor Satyadeep Mishra, who recently tied the knot with fashion designer Masaba.Meanwhile, on the work front, Aditi will be seen in 'Gandhi Talks,' a silent film co-starring Vijay Sethupathi and Siddharth Jhadav.Aditi is also all set to star in the Indo-UK co-production 'Lioness'.'Lioness', the official Indo-UK co-production being made under the bilateral treaty signed by the two countries in 2008, was announced at the India Pavilion (managed by FICCI under the aegis of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting) at the Cannes Film Festival.The film, inspired by the research of Peter Bance, the historian who discovered the story of Princess Sophia Duleep, is the story of two British Punjabi women living in the UK, a century apart. Peter is also one of the executive producers of the film.Coming back to 'Heeramandi', the Netflix series also stars actors Manisha Koirala, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh and Sharmin Segal in pivotal roles.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 24 : The premiere night of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut web series 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' was undoubtedly a star-studded affair. Who's who of Bollywood made a glamorous appearance at the screening on Wednesday night. From veteran actress Rekha to superstar Salman Khan, actress Alia Bhatt, Mrunal Thakur, Vicky Kaushal, several stars gathered together to root for Bhansali and his 'Heeramandi' team. Most celebrities stepped onto the red carpet wearing ethnic attire. Alia came to the premiere donning an ivory sharara set. She kept her hair loose and accessorised her outfit with heavy earrings and a bindi.She also posed with her mother Soni Razdan and mother-in-law Neetu Kapoor on the red carpet. Alia has worked with Bhansali in 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' for which she bagged her first National Award. She is once again reuniting with Bhansali for 'Love and War', which also features Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. Vicky Kaushal also marked his presence at the screening. Veteran actress Rekha was also there. She looked ethereal in a golden saree. Also spotted at the premiere of the Netflix show was Ananya Panday in a royal blue suit. Ananya's rumoured boyfriend Aditya Roy Kapur, actress Fardeen Khan, Esha Deol, Shruti Haasan, Karan Johar, Rakul Preet Singh, Kriti Kharbanda and Pulkit Samrat also attended the screening. Set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar promises to be an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom. Through the stories of courtesans and their patrons, the series delves deep into the cultural reality of Heeramandi.Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Fardeen Khan Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1.The entire team posed on the red carpet for the shutterbugs. 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' is based on the concept by Moin Beg. Bhansali also serves as a producer on the show.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 24 : Superstar Salman Khan grabbed the eyeballs as he attended the star-studded screening of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's web series, 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' in Mumbai.He looked dapper in white printed trousers and a black shirt and striking a suave pose for the paparazzi.The event was also attended by several other celebs including Alia Bhatt, Ananya Panday, Rashmika Mandanna, Sonam Bajwa, Fardeen Khan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Fardeen Khan, Anand L Rai, Anupam Kher, Kapil Sharma, among others.Set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' promises to be an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom.Through the stories of courtesans and their patrons, the series delves deep into the cultural reality of Heeramandi.Bhansali Productions shared the trailer on their official Instagram handle. The caption reads, "In the glittering, regal halls of Shahi Mahal, romance and revolution clash in silence...Sanjay Leela Bhansali's sweeping saga of love, loss and liberation - Heeramandi: The Diamond bazaar..Trailer out now!"The intriguing trailer showcases the lives of courtesans in Heeramandi, Lahore, British India. Mallikajaan (Manisha Koirala) governs over an aristocratic courtesan house. She plans, fearing no one, until the homecoming of her late nemesis' daughter, Fareedan (Sonakshi Sinha), which raises problems in the household.Outside, the city is rolling with revolutionaries seeking India's independence from British domination, with Mallikajaan's daughter, Bibbojaan (Aditi Rao Hydari), joining the struggle for freedom.Meanwhile, Mallikajaan's youngest son, Alamzeb (Sharmin Segal), fantasises about falling in love with the son of a nobleman, Tajdar (Taha Shah Badussha), and wishes to escape Heeramandi.At one point, it gives glimpses of India's freedom struggle and on the other hand, it also shows Mallikajaan and Fareedan face off in an epic battle for the title of Heeramandi's huzoor.'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' is scheduled to be out on May 1.The series, which marks Bhansali's debut in the web world, also stars Manisha Koirala, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Sheikh and Sharmin Segal in pivotal roles. Talking about Salman Khan, a few days ago, two men opened fire outside his house in Mumbai and it has raised concerns among fans and family members.Recently Salman Khan's brother-in-law Aayush Sharma has expressed his concerns over the firing incident and said that it is a "tough time" for the family.Speaking to ANI, he shared, "We are his family. It is a tough time for us. And we all as a family stand together.""I believe that at this point of time, it will not be appropriate for me to give any statement or comment because it is a grave situation. A competent Mumbai Police has done a great job in doing what they're doing, and the matter is still under investigation. So, at this stage, I would just say thank you, to everybody who has sent their love and prayers, that means a lot. And as you all know he's (Salman Khan) back to work so am I," added the 'Antim: The Final Truth' actor.Earlier, his brother Arbaaz Khan also took to Instagram and released a statement on their family's behalf.In the post, Arbaaz stated that the particular "disturbing" incident has affected the family."The recent incident of firing by two unidentified person in a motorcycle at Galaxy apartment the residence of the Salim Khan family is very disturbing and unnerving. Our family has been taken aback by this shocking incident that took place. Unfortunately, some people claiming to be close to our family and pretending to be the spokesperson have been making loose statements to the media saying it's all a publicity stunt and the family remains unaffected which is not true and these views should not be taken seriously," the statement read.He also shared that the family is fully cooperating with the Mumbai Police in investigating the matter."No member of the Salim Khan family has made any statement regarding this incident to the media. At this time the family is helping and cooperating with the police in the investigation of this untoward incident. We have faith in the Mumbai police and we have been assured they will do everything in their capacity to protect and secure our family. Thank you everyone for your love and support," Arbaaz wrote.In a recent development, Delhi crime branch officials on Wednesday reached Mumbai and interrogated the two accused arrested in the Salman Khan firing case.Both the accused Vicky Gupta and Sagar Pal were interrogated for about three hours.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 10 : Praises have been pouring in for ace filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali ever since the trailer of his debut web series 'Heeramandi' was unveiled.Actors Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal, who will be seen headlining Bhansali's 'Love & War' film, too, gave a shout to the director for creating "magic" with 'Heeramandi'.Taking to Instagram, Vicky Kaushal wrote, "How stunning is this! The world building, the drama... top notch."Alia on her Instagram Story wrote, "Uffff!!! Just magic!!!"Starring a talented ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman, 'Heeramandi' is set to be out on May 1.Set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, the project promises to be an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom.With the series, Fardeen Khan is making his return to the screen after a gap of 14 years.At the trailer launch in the national capital on Tuesday, Fardeen said, "It's been a very long gap for me, it's been almost 14 years. I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity. I couldn't have hoped for a better opportunity as an actor to return to the screen," said Fardeen, who was last seen in 2010's 'Dulha Mil Gaya.'He also shared how Bhansali allows actors to "bring depth to the roles."Fardeen added, "For me, this was something I have never done and it was the perfect role for me. At the age I am, to come back to the screen, you come with a certain amount of life experience, and wisdom and you know you can you can contribute to the layers that Sanjay writes into all his characters. His characters are very intricate and very complex. There's nobody like him who writes characters. He goes across the spectrum and emotions, and he has this intuitive understanding of it. It's daunting to work with him, but at the same time, when you see it all together, it just all makes sense. I'm extremely grateful for this chance and so happy to be here."