As the restored version of Rekha’s 1981 classic ‘Umrao Jaan’ re-releases in theatres today (June 27), its director Muzaffar Ali has weighed in on the recent comparisons between his film and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s lavish Netflix series, ‘Heeramandi’. In a candid interview, Ali described the series as a visually extravagant effort, but one that operates on a very different creative wavelength than his own film.
“Too Palatial and Rich”: Ali Critiques Bhansali’s Approach
Speaking to Times Now, Ali explained why he believes comparisons between the two are misplaced.
“I have seen one episode of Heeramandi. That’s a different thing and an over-the-top effort. It has got its own uniqueness, mine is different. It is very difficult to compare. That’s also a lot of effort. My journey has come from trunks and closets and cupboards; I have a different passion for textiles,” he said.
He added more pointedly: “Heeramandi is nice but over-the-top. It is too palatial and rich. I wouldn’t do that. I would speak a different language.”
Rekha’s Influence on ‘Heeramandi’
Interestingly, Bhansali’s series did draw inspiration from ‘Umrao Jaan’, at least for some performers. Richa Chadha, who featured in the ensemble cast, had earlier shared how she took cues from Rekha’s iconic mujra performance for her own dance in the series.
“Receiving praises and love from someone as revered as Rekha ji is a moment I will cherish forever… There’s a song in the series, which is my solo mujra. For that, I referenced her song from Umrao Jaan, Ye kya jagah hai doston,” Chadha said, calling Rekha her “hero.”
A Grand Comeback for ‘Umrao Jaan’
The re-release of ‘Umrao Jaan’ comes after a meticulous restoration by the National Film Development Corporation and the National Film Archive of India, under the National Film Heritage Mission. Set in 19th-century Lucknow, the film tells the story of Amiran, a young girl forced into a brothel who later becomes the celebrated courtesan and poet, Umrao Jaan.
A special screening of the film in Mumbai drew major names from the industry. Rekha was joined by celebrities like Alia Bhatt, who paid tribute by donning her ‘Silsila’-inspired look, Aamir Khan, AR Rahman, Anil Kapoor, Ila Arun, and Hema Malini.
As ‘Umrao Jaan’ returns to theatres, it not only revives a cinematic treasure but also reignites a debate on authenticity, aesthetics, and storytelling between two generations of filmmakers.
