Renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has unveiled the first song of his much-anticipated project, “Heeramandi,” after years in the making. Titled “Sakal Ban,” the song is a tryst with historical drama, showcasing Bhansali’s signature opulence and grandeur. The music video features an ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Richa Chaddha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Shaikh, and Sharmin Sehgal, all immersed in a dance performance.
However, for those familiar with Bhansali’s cinematic style, the snapshot of “Heeramandi” in the song appears somewhat unremarkable. The overhead shots of expansive architecture and perfectly choreographed dance sequences feel overdone, with a robotic touch that may distance the audience from the story. The symmetrical twirling skirts of the courtesans, while visually striking, may evoke a sense of manufactured grandiosity rather than authentic engagement with the characters.
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The song credits Raja Hasan for its soulful vocals, and its composition is attributed to a “traditional” source, with lyrics credited to the 14th-century poet Amir Khusro. The visuals of “Sakal Ban” may bring to mind Bhansali’s previous work, particularly the iconic song “Deewani Mastani” from “Bajirao Mastani,” evident in the color palette and choreography.
Despite any reservations about the visual aesthetics, the project holds significance for the cast and crew. Manisha Koirala, who previously worked with Bhansali in “Khamoshi: The Musical” in 1996, expressed her excitement about reuniting with the director after 25 years. Describing her journey with Bhansali as “humongous,” she praised his growth as an artist and filmmaker, emphasizing the privilege of working with one of India’s greatest filmmakers.
While the visual elements may invite comparisons to Bhansali’s previous works, the anticipation for “Heeramandi” remains high, with fans eager to witness the director’s storytelling prowess in yet another historical drama.
