Mumbai: Streaming giant Netflix has unveiled the debut look of actor Fardeen Khan in “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar”, an upcoming period drama series which also marks the prestigious OTT debut of acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Alongside Khan’s captivating debut, the streaming service also showcased character posters featuring veteran actor Shekhar Suman, his son Adhyayan Suman, and Taha Shah. The series is intricately woven around the Indian freedom struggle movement.
After a hiatus of nearly 15 years, Fardeen Khan is making a comeback to the screen with “Heeramandi”. His last appearance was in the 2010 film “Dulha Mil Gaya”.
The 50-year-old actor, celebrated for his roles in films like “Jungle”, “Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya”, “Bhoot”, “Dev”, and “No Entry”, essays the character of Wali Mohammed in this grand narrative.
In a statement on its social media channels, Netflix India wrote, “Caught in a whirlwind struggle of love and duty, Wali Mohammed attempts to reconcile his heart’s desire with his royal responsibilities. Fardeen Khan makes his spectacular return to the screen as Wali Mohammed,” accompanying the announcement with Khan’s character poster.
“Heeramandi” is presented as an expansive tale of love, power, revenge, and freedom, delving deep into the cultural milieu of ‘Heeramandi’, a resplendent district. This is portrayed through the entwined tales of courtesans and their patrons, all set against the backdrop of India’s tumultuous freedom struggle during the 1940s.
Scheduled for release on May 1st, the series boasts an ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Sanjeeda Shaikh in pivotal roles.
Shekhar Suman, recognized for his roles in films like “Utsav” and “Sansar”, as well as the iconic comedy series “Dekh Bhai Dekh”, portrays the character of Zulfikar. Netflix described his role, “Pledging his allegiance to Mallikajaan (Koirala), only one obstacle stands in Zulfikar’s path to greatness – Heeramandi”.
His son, Adhyayan, steps into the shoes of Zoravar. Adhyayan, with credits in films such as “Raaz – The Mystery Continues”, “Jashn”, and the recent “Chup: Revenge of the Artist”, is depicted as having a passionate bond with Lajjo (Chadha) in the series.
Taha Shah, renowned for his roles in “Baar Baar Dekho” and “Luv Ka The End”, essays the character of Tajdar in “Heeramandi”. Netflix describes him as “A nawab’s son caught between tradition and love, seeking purpose through liberation.”
“Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar” is conceptualized by Moin Beg and is both created and directed by Bhansali, who also dons the hat of a producer for the show.
