‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’ which marks Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s foray into the digital world, is set to release on Netflix on May 1. The much-awaited series features Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Shekhar Suman, Adhyayan Suman, Jason Shah and many others in prominent roles. The upcoming period drama focuses on the lives of tawaifs (courtesans) in Lahore during the pre-independence era.
Jason Shah, an Indo-British actor, will be seen essaying the role of antagonist Mr. Cartwright. In a conversation with ABP Live over email, Jason discussed his role and said that he feels blessed to be a part of Heeramandi.
“I give God the credit for my life. Reaching here is all due to his guidance as he is the one who gives me the desires of my heart,” he added.
Describing his character in ‘Heeramandi’, Jason said, “Mr. Cartwright is ruthless and he will stop at nothing to get the job done. Lying comes with the job as he answers to the crown but has to play a diplomatic blame game in the Indian circles he mixes with.”
To prepare for his role Jason tried not to go over the top and keep it as subtle as possible.
He said, “I keep fit, but for this character I didn’t want the cliche baywatch body with surf board abs, as I don’t think it would have suited this character. So, I put on a little weight. Otherwise, to be honest, I just kept a thought in mind not to go over the top and be as subtle as possible, unless directed to do so.”
The show has a scene where Jason gets close to another man and that according to him was the most difficult part of his character.
Jason said, “Getting this close with another man definitely made me feel nervous, and so was Indresh in the beginning. But being every part of professional, we pulled it off and from the hoots, screams & roaring applause at the premier from all who came. I’m sure the scene will have an impact in the show.”
Talking about co-worders, Jason said that he thoroughly enjoyed working with Sonakshi Sinha in every scene. “But, intensity wise, I think my scene with Malikajaan, which I can’t reveal now, is also going to leave an impact,” he added.
Apart from this massive project, Jason Shah has also worked in numerous television shows playing a variety of roles on screen, including ‘Jhansi Ki Rani’ and ‘Barrister Babu’. Apart from that, Jason has also been part of movies like ‘Partner’.
