Several TV actors played pivotal roles in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi, including Sanjeeda Shaikh, Pratibha Ranta, and others, who delivered outstanding performances.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus Heeramandi is currently streaming on Netflix, comprising eight episodes that have garnered praise for their grand sets, stellar performances by the actors, and soulful music. The web film stars Manisha Koirala, Shirin Sehgal, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Richa Chadha, and Sonakshi Sinha in prominent roles.
While the seasoned Bollywood actors showcased their brilliance in the project, several TV actors also had the privilege of collaborating with the maestro SLB. Here’s a glimpse of seven TV actors who not only illuminated the web-film but also enriched it with their contributions.
1. Sanjeeda Shaikh as Waheeda
Sanjeeda Shaikh portrayed the character of Waheeda in the show. While Shaikh’s role in Baghban had its ups and downs, she gained recognition for her performances in various small-screen productions such as Kya Hoga Nimmo Ka, Ishq Ka Rang Safed, Love Ka Hai Intezaar, Gehraiyyan, and Ek Haseena Thi, among others. Embracing the opportunity to portray one of the courtesans in the project, Shaikh delved into the multifaceted character of Waheeda, which encompassed elements of darkness, insecurity, strength, and vulnerability. Shaikh’s portrayal was applauded for its depth and authenticity.
The talented actress was slated to appear in the web-movie with a prominent facial scar, which she flawlessly embodied in every frame she graced.
2. Shruti Sharma as Saima
Shruti Sharma, known for her role in Gathbandhan, portrayed the character of Saima, a servant employed by Mallikajaan. Throughout the show, Saima’s storyline, involving her romantic entanglement with Iqbal, her friendship with Alamzeb, and her significant sacrifice for her friend Alam, captivated audiences. Sharma’s stellar performance left viewers eager to uncover the character’s future. Alongside Gathbandhan, Sharma has captivated audiences on the small screen with her appearances in projects such as Namak Isak Ka, Yeh Jaadu Hai Jinn Ka, and Nazar, among others.
3. Pratibha Ranta
Pratibha Ranta embarked on her acting journey with the Zee TV show Qubaan Hua alongside Karan Jothwani before gracing the screen in Laapata Ladies. Her commendable performance in the series earned her praise for her acting prowess, paving the way for her transition to the silver screen. SLB’s Heeramandi is poised to serve as a significant milestone in Ranta’s career, where she portrays the character of Shama, the daughter of Waheeda.
4. Indresh Malik as Ustaad Ji
Indresh Malik, recognized for his supporting role in the popular Colors TV show Madhubala: Ek Ishq Ek Junoon, also portrayed the antagonist Amandeep in Udaariyaan. In the latter, Malik embodied the complex character of a pimp named Ustaadji. From his demeanor to his expressions and dialogue delivery, Ustaadji infused the narrative with charisma and intrigue. Impressively, Malik caught the attention of SLB, securing a role in Alia Bhatt’s Gangubai. However, the prominence of Ustaadji’s character in Gangubai surpassed that of Malik’s previous role.
5. Pankaj Bhatia as Feroz Sahab
Pankaj Bhatia, recognized for his portrayal of Bala in Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, took on the role of Nawab Feroz Sahab. Feroz initially was Waheeda’s exclusive patron, but his attention soon shifted to her daughter, Shama, causing a rift between mother and daughter. However, Shama and Waheeda reconciled and publicly humiliated Feroz. This scene has garnered viral attention on the internet. Bhatia has also made significant contributions to television through shows like Saavi Ki Savari, Devanshi, and Havan, among others.
6. Jayati Bhatia as Phatto
Jayati Bhatia, renowned for her portrayal of Mataji in Sasural Simar Ka, also had a significant role in Heeramandi. With appearances in TV shows like Lockdown Ki Lovestory, Kitne Kool Hai Hum, and Sasural Genda Phool, Bhatia has showcased her versatility. In Heeramandi, she depicted the character of Photto, one of Mallikajaan’s longstanding servants. Despite Photto’s loyalty over the years, Mallikajaan betrayed her when she sought assistance.
7. Jason Shah
Jason Shah rose to prominence with his appearance as a wild-card contestant on Bigg Boss 10. This British-Indian actor and fitness model portrayed Officer Cartwright in the project, aligning with Ustaad and Fareedan against Mallikajaan. Besides Bigg Boss, Shah has featured in television shows such as Barrister Babu and Khoob Ladi Mardaani- Jhansi Ki Rani, showcasing his versatility.
Despite the impressive ensemble of the project, the presence of TV actors in the web-film highlighted the notion that talent surpasses the medium, emphasizing the importance of skill over platform.