Heeramandi: A Spectacle of Grandeur

A review by Sanjiva Sahai

If you’re into drowning in grandeur and have a lifetime to spare, indulge in this 8-hour-and-a-half spectacle called हीरामण्डी where the set design gets more screen time than the plot itself.

    Who needs historical accuracy when we can have a jolly good मुंबइया spin in all the recently released movies? Who cares about facts anyway when we’ve got the glitz and glamour of a Bhansali extravaganza to distract us?

    Indeed, amidst the narrative, several performances shine with profound depth. Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha,  Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha and the entire female ensemble deliver commendable portrayals, leaving a lasting impression. Additionally, the music, both vocal and instrumental, stands as a formidable asset.

    Ah, if only Bhansali had a knack for precision! A concise 2-hour 15-minute film instead of this drawn-out series would have spared us all a lot of eye-rolling and tea breaks.
          __ Sanjiva Sahai