When it comes to grandeur and scale, Sanjay Leela Bhansali has always stood apart in Indian cinema. In 2024, he carried his trademark lavish storytelling to the OTT space with Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.
The series, mounted on a jaw-dropping budget of nearly Rs 200 crore, was hailed as India’s most expensive web series ever produced.
From its opulent sets to intricate costumes and large ensemble cast, Heeramandi was a visual extravaganza that immediately captured viewers’ attention when it premiered on Netflix on May 1, 2024.
How did the series perform on OTT?
Upon release, Heeramandi stormed into Netflix’s Top 10 list, holding its ground for weeks as one of the most-watched Indian titles on the platform. The show did not just find popularity with the audience but also garnered critical acclaim.
At the Filmfare OTT Awards 2024, the series bagged a record 17 nominations, including Best Drama Series and Best Director for Bhansali. It eventually went on to win five awards, with Manisha Koirala lifting the Best Actress trophy for her powerful performance. Actors Richa Chadha and Sanjeeda Sheikh also received nominations for Best Supporting Actress.
Why was Heeramandi such a risky gamble?
Spending Rs 200 crore on a web series in India was a bold step, but Bhansali’s vision demanded it. The show recreated the world of Lahore’s Heeramandi, focusing on themes of power, love, betrayal, and freedom during the pre-independence era.
With its sprawling sets, rich music, and emotionally charged storytelling, Heeramandi was a classic Bhansali production where every frame looked like a painting. The high production costs were offset by its massive digital rights deal, with Netflix acquiring the show for around Rs 80 crore.
What lies ahead for Heeramandi?
Buoyed by its resounding success, Netflix officially announced Season 2 of Heeramandi in June 2024, just weeks after the first season’s release. Fans are already anticipating another season filled with Bhansali’s signature grandeur and drama.
Why is Heeramandi a landmark in Indian OTT history?
Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar didn’t just push the boundaries of storytelling but also redefined how much Indian creators are willing to invest in OTT content. With its mix of strong performances, rich visuals, and mass appeal, it continues to be hailed as one of the most memorable web series in India’s digital entertainment landscape.
Highlights:
- Heeramandi was made on a massive budget of Rs 200 crore, making it India’s most expensive web series.
- The Netflix series bagged 17 Filmfare OTT Award nominations and won 5, including Best Actress for Manisha Koirala.
- Netflix announced Heeramandi Season 2 in June 2024 following the show’s phenomenal success.