Sanjay Leela Bhansali has responded to the performance of Sharmin Segal in his latest series, ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’, following widespread criticism and trolling on social media.
Renowned for his meticulous direction and ability to draw out exceptional performances from actors such as Aishwarya Rai, Rani Mukerji, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra, and Alia Bhatt, Bhansali is celebrated for his perfectionist approach to filmmaking.
However, Segal, who played the role of Alamzeb in the Netflix series, has faced consistent criticism for what some perceive as a lackluster and expressionless performance, with many considering her the weakest link among the seasoned cast.
Questions have arisen regarding Bhansali’s decision to cast her in a significant role solely based on their familial relationship.
In a recent interview addressing the ensemble cast’s performances, including Segal’s, Bhansali chose not to directly confront the criticism surrounding her acting. Instead, he praised Segal’s commitment to her role. He recounted, “She kept saying, ‘Mama, I’ll underplay.’ I said, ‘Underplay? Are you thinking I’m going to ask you to overplay?'”
Discussing the emergence of new talent in the industry, Bhansali acknowledged the enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by the younger generation of actors. He noted, “I know that they [the new generation of actors] love me as much. I can see it in the way [they ask me], ‘Are you happy? Should we do one more take? Can we do it one more time? Are you okay?’ I can see that love in their eyes. Now that’s very rare.”
For context, Segal had previously worked as an assistant to her uncle on blockbuster films like ‘Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela’, ‘Bajirao Mastani’, and ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’, before making her on-screen debut in his production ‘Malaal’ and securing a significant role in his latest series.
Meanwhile, ‘Heeramandi’, Bhansali’s eight-part Netflix series, explores the lives of six courtesans, played by Sonakshi Sinha, Sharmin Segal, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Manisha Koirala, and Sanjeeda Sheikh, offering insights into their experiences in the red-light district of Lahore.