Actor Sharmin Segal, who has been in the spotlight since the release of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, has shared insights into the preparation and challenges she faced for her performance in the Sanjay Leela Bhansali web series. In a recent interview, Sharmin revealed that she drew inspiration from Meena Kumari’s iconic role in Pakeezah (1972) to bring depth to her portrayal of the tragic character Alamzeb.
Emulating a Legend
Sharmin Segal delved into the classic film Pakeezah, attempting to capture the essence of Meena Kumari’s “nothingness” in her performance. She confessed that it took her 15-16 attempts to fully watch the film because it was so different from anything she had seen before. “Meena Kumari was one of my inspirations,” she shared, emphasizing the profound impact of Kumari’s portrayal on her own acting.
Preparation and Execution
Speaking to ETimes, Sharmin discussed her rigorous preparation for Heeramandi, which included training in dance and diction. She credited director Sanjay Leela Bhansali for his ability to elevate the material with his unique touch. Despite the challenges, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to bring Alamzeb to life.
Facing Criticism and Finding Gratitude
Sharmin has faced significant criticism and trolling for her “expressionless” acting in the series. However, she remains undeterred, focusing on the multifaceted nature of human emotions that she aimed to convey through her character. “People will say what they have to say. They have the right to do that. Being a creative person, you are putting yourself out there for people to perceive you,” she remarked. Sharmin also acknowledged the immense appreciation she has received, which has validated her efforts and brought her joy.
Appreciation from Audiences
Reflecting on the positive feedback, Sharmin noted the difference between receiving praise from loved ones and being recognized by audiences worldwide. “It’s one thing for parents to say, ‘good job beta,’ but it’s another thing altogether to receive praise from audiences across the globe,” she said, expressing her gratitude for the love and support for both her character and the show.
Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar
Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, which premiered on Netflix on May 1, also stars Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Richa Chadha, and Fardeen Khan. The series continues to captivate audiences with its rich storytelling and stellar performances, marking another significant project in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s illustrious career.
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