Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to heap praises on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s debut web series “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.” Kapur expressed admiration for Bhansali’s cinematic art, describing it as “seductive” and capable of mesmerizing viewers. He also commended actor Manisha Koirala’s performance in the series. Kapur highlighted Netflix’s role in providing Indian filmmakers with the budgets they deserve.
In his tweet, Kapur wrote, “Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s cinematic art is so seductive. He pulls you into his world and mesmerises you. His images stayed with me long after I binge watched the whole of #Heeramandi in one go.. and what an effective performance by Manisha Koirala @mkoirala. Finally #Netflix is giving Indian filmmakers budgets they deserve.”
While Kapur’s praise was met with appreciation from some, others expressed critical feedback regarding the series. Some users found the content lacking depth and substance, criticizing it as superficial gloss.
“Heeramandi” features a stellar cast including Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, and others. Set against the backdrop of India’s freedom struggle in the 1940s, the series unfolds as an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom. It premiered on Netflix on May 1, garnering mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike.