'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar', is receiving mixed reaction from viewers
AkritiSingh 
Sanjay Leela Bhansali's highly anticipated streaming debut, 'Heeramandi', has been in the making for four years, spanning eight episodes with a budget of approximately 200 crore rupees with 380 days of shooting, The series featuring Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, and Sanjeeda Shaikh, portraying the lives of tawaifs (courtesans) in Lahore's historic Heeramandi district during India's freedom struggle.
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, 'Heeramandi' is currently trending on Netflix, having premiered on May 1. Set in the pre-Independence era, the series illuminates the powerful stories of courtesans in Lahore, highlighting their significant roles during that period.
Heeramandi is received positive reviews from celebrities, viewers have a mixed response.
The series is receiving criticism for its perceived inauthentic portrayal of the historical period and location it is set in. Many viewers from Lahore criticised the show for its depiction of events, locations and costumes, arguing that it does not accurately represent 1940s Lahore
A user on X with the username Hamd Nawaz, shared her thoughts saying "Just watched Heeramandi. Found everything but heermandi in it. I mean either you don’t set your story in 1940’s Lahore, or if you do- you don’t set it in Agra’s landscape, Delhi’s Urdu, Lakhnavi dresses and 1840’s vibe. My not-so-sorry Lahori self can’t really let it go."
Due to this online criticism Sharmin Segal who plays the role of Alamzeb is in the headlines as she has switched off her comments section on her latest post.
While appreciating the filmmaker's creative approach, viewers have suggested that deeper research into the historical and cultural context would enhance the series.
'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' delves into the lives of courtesans and nawabs in a pre-partition Indian red-light district, featuring acclaimed actors Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, and Sharmin Segal. This project has been Sanjay Leela Bhansali's passion for over 14 years.
