MUMBAI : Sanjay Leela Bhansali is the creator and director of the period drama television series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.

During the Indian independence fight against the British Raj, the show centers on the life of tawaifs in Lahore's Heera Mandi red-light area. Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Sheikh, and Sharmin Segal are among its stars. 

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Vaishnavi Ganatra plays an integral part in the series.

TellyChakkar contacted Vaishnavi to know her experience working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali and shooting for the series.

She averred, “So, picture this. I'm on the set of Heeramandi, and who do I see? None other than the luminary himself, Sanjay Leela Bhansali sir. From the moment I got cast, I've been pinching myself every day, feeling blessed and grateful beyond words. I LIVED MY DREAM!

I feel so lucky to have worked under sir’s guidance. Mr. Bhansali isn't just a director; he's a mentor, a visionary, and a force to be reckoned with. Every moment spent on set was a masterclass, and I soaked up every bit of knowledge like a sponge. His attention to detail is so sharp it could cut diamonds, and his vision for Heeramandi was like nothing I've ever seen before.

My scene, depicting the origin of Waheeda's scar, was intense and emotionally charged. We brought it to life in a way that still gives me goosebumps. With Mr. Bhansali at the helm, I dived into the scene headfirst and came out on the other side feeling like I’d just conquered the world! She was different from anything I've ever portrayed before, and her journey turned out to be so incredibly beautiful. There was such a profound blend of inner and outer beauty as well as vulnerability in the character of Young Waheeda.

Firsts are always special; it was an experience of a lifetime! I am grateful for every second of it! This is just the beginning of many more opportunities to come. I can't wait to see where this beautiful journey takes me next.”

Well said Vaishnavi! 

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Have you watched Heeramandi yet? If yes, let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!