Renowned designers Rimple and Harpreet Narula have once again teamed up with filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, following their successful collaboration on the 2018 epic Padmaavat. This time, they have contributed their talent to Bhansali’s debut series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.
Delving into the rich history of courtesans in pre-partition India, the duo meticulously crafted over 300 stunning ensembles for the series. Inspired by the vibrant landscapes of undivided Punjab, particularly Lahore, they immersed themselves in extensive research to capture the essence of the era authentically.
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In an interview with IANS, Harpreet shared his personal connection to the project’s setting, reflecting on the significance of the historical backdrop: “It’s set in pre-partition India, specifically in the undivided Punjab region, with a focus on Lahore. This resonates deeply with us because my family comes from Gujranwala in Punjab, so I’ve grown up hearing stories about that time from my grandparents and aunts.”
The designers saw Heeramandi as an opportunity to explore the intricacies of fashion from a bygone era, providing a fresh perspective on Lahore’s cultural heritage. “We have made over 300 outfits for the series in a span of two years,” Rimple added, showcasing their dedication and attention to detail.
Their creative process involved extensive research, from studying prominent personalities and films of the era to sourcing vintage textiles from museums worldwide. Reflecting on their collaboration with Bhansali, Rimple commented, “Every filmmaker has their own unique style, but Bhansali’s cinema and aesthetic are exceptionally intricate and dreamlike.”
Despite the challenges posed by the project’s scale, Rimple and Harpreet’s passion for their craft shone through as they brought Bhansali’s vision for Heeramandi to life. For the designer duo, working on the project is “a dream come true,” as they delve into Bhansali’s creative mind while maintaining artistic freedom.
