Sanjay Leela Bhansali reveals he wanted Fawad, Mahira, Imran Abbas in ‘Heeramandi’

Mumbai: Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the maestro behind some of Bollywood’s most visually stunning and emotionally captivating films, is stirring up some buzz in the industry once again. This time, it’s not just for his trademark grandeur and cinematic brilliance, but for his desire to cast Pakistani actors, Fawad, Mahira, and Imran Abbas in his upcoming magnum opus, “Heeramandi.”

For those unfamiliar, “Heeramandi” promises to be a spectacle unlike any other, delving into the intricacies of the famed red-light district of Lahore, exploring the lives of courtesans and the world they inhabit. With Bhansali at the helm, expectations are sky-high for a cinematic experience that will not only dazzle the senses but also touch the heart.

At its Los Angeles premiere, Bhansali elaborated on his vision for the high-budget production. He disclosed his initial intention to develop it as a movie, featuring Rekha, Kareena Kapoor, and Rani Mukerji. According to the filmmaker, the concept for “Heeramandi” had been brewing in his mind for 18 years. However, the project never materialized into a film due to the sheer magnitude of the story.

Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah, Fardeen Khan, and Shekhar Suman are some of the stars in “Heeramandi.”

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In an interview, Imran Abbas had mentioned in an interview that he was offered a role in the show. “I didn’t refuse Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi; the project was canceled. Also, Aditya Roy Kapur’s role in Guzaarish was initially offered to me,” he shared during the interview.

Bhansali also mentioned that he worked on the show for more than 300 days and it took almost three years to develop. His films have always pushed boundaries and challenged norms, and “Heeramandi” looks to be no exception. Whether or not he ultimately goes through with casting Pakistani actors remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure – the mere possibility has already sparked conversations and ignited imaginations.

In the end, perhaps that’s what great cinema is all about – sparking conversations, challenging perceptions, and bringing people together, regardless of where they come from or what divides them. And if anyone can pull off such a feat, it’s Sanjay Leela Bhansali. So here’s to “Heeramandi” – may it be a film for the ages, transcending borders and touching hearts in the process.

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