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Manisha Koirala, the renowned Bollywood actress, is preparing for her upcoming role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s period drama series “Heeramandi.” The actor is set to play the protagonist in the series, which is set in the 1940s, depicting pre-Independence India.
In an interview with India Today, Manisha Koirala revealed one of her biggest regrets in her career, which was rejecting a film offered by legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra. The actress admitted, “One of the regrets that I have in my career is that I didn’t do Yash Chopra’s film. I was pitted against Madhuri ji (Dixit), and I got scared. I backed out of that project due to insecurity.”
However, years later, Manisha had the opportunity to work with Madhuri in Raj Kumar Santoshi’s Lajja. Reflecting on this, she said, “Madhuri ji is such a good person and actress. There was no need for me to be insecure. I think when you have a strong actor in front of you, you only perform better. They encourage you to perform better. That comes from age and experience. I loved working with Madhuri ji in that (movie). I loved working with Rekha ji as well.”
For those unaware, Yash Chopra’s Dil To Pagal Hai was offered to many Bollywood actors of the 90s. However, the role ultimately went to Karishma Kapoor, who portrayed the character of Nisha. Her musical face-off with Madhuri, titled The Dance of Envy, became popular among fans. Before Karishma, Urmila Matondkar, Kajol, Raveena Tandon, and Juhi Chawla were also approached for the project.
In her upcoming project, Manisha Koirala portrays the role of a courtesan named Mallikajaan based in the red-light district of Heera Mandi in Lahore. The series, depicting the 1940s, showcases pre-partition India. This upcoming magnum opus narrates the relationship of courtesans with the Nawabs (governors during the Mughal empire) and the British officers.
“Heeramandi” also features Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, and Sharmin Segal.
Manisha Koirala’s involvement in “Heeramandi” adds anticipation to the already eagerly awaited series. As the actress steps into the shoes of Mallikajaan, fans are eager to witness her portrayal in the intriguing and historical drama.
