Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix drama, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, released on May 1, 2024, has generated significant buzz. Known for its grand sets, aesthetics, and star-studded cast, the series has also stirred controversy. While most of the cast has received praise, Sharmin Segal, the filmmaker’s niece, faced sharp criticism for her portrayal of ‘Alamzeb.’
Jason Shah’s Perspective on Sharmin Segal’s Acting
Jason Shah, who plays ‘Alastair Cartwright’ in the series, discussed Sharmin’s performance in an interview with Entertainment Live. He remarked that Segal could have intensified her emotional expressions at various points. Reflecting on Bhansali’s direction for Sharmin to act from the heart rather than the head, Jason said:
“I thought, personally, there should have been a higher escalation of emotion in different places. I remember Sanjay also saying, ‘Stop acting from your head, act from your heart’. But I don’t know, maybe that’s what they wanted from her. Maybe that was the one tone that they were looking for from this character. But that’s the director’s call. She was alright. She was doing her thing. We worked pretty easily together. We never had any difficulty as such.”
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Netizens Applaud Jason Shah’s Honesty
Shah’s comments have gone viral, with many on social media praising his sincerity. One user commented, “Finally at least someone’s honest.” Another added, “Oh no, he doesn’t know how Bollywood works. You cannot be this honest.” A third user noted, “How politely he said that he agrees that acting done by Sharmin is horrible.”
Defense of Sharmin Segal’s Performance
Despite the criticism, some of Segal’s co-stars and others in the industry have come to her defense. Shekhar Suman highlighted the harshness of the criticism towards Sharmin, noting that such negativity could be damaging. Taha Shah, her on-screen love interest, affirmed that she had tried her best. Aditi Rao Hydari also condemned the mean-spirited nature of the critiques, emphasizing the importance of respectful feedback. Indresh Malik praised Segal’s potential, expressing that she would have a successful future in acting.
The debate around Sharmin Segal’s performance in Heeramandi continues, with opinions divided. While Jason Shah’s candid feedback has been appreciated by many, others stand by Sharmin, underscoring the subjectivity of artistic performances.
