The film industry often demands a level of vulnerability from its actors, especially in scenes that portray intimacy on the big screen. Manisha Koirala, a name synonymous with grace and powerhouse performances, recently shone in her role as Mallikajaan in the much-talked-about web series ‘Heeramandi,’ directed by celebrated filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. This series, which marks Bhansali’s foray into digital streaming on Netflix, has brought the veteran actress back into the spotlight.
However, Manisha’s journey to filming such scenes hasn’t been without its challenges. Before she captivated audiences in a segment of Karan Johar’s anthology ‘Lust Stories,’ Koirala faced her own set of apprehensions concerning onscreen intimacy. Her concerns stemmed from less-than-positive experiences in the past, which she candidly discussed in various interviews.
Speaking to Masala, she reflected on her initial meetings with director Dibakar Banerjee. “I was deeply impressed by Dibakar’s open-minded responsive attitude. He listens to everyone, not just actors but also the crew. He narrated the film to me on Skype as I was in Nepal.” These discussions led to an honest conversation about her comfort level. She recalled saying, “I had my reservations about the love-making scenes. I very frankly told Dibakar that I’ve had some bad experiences with on-screen intimacy in the past. I thought he would not be able to get around that problem.”
Her hesitation highlighted the need for sensitivity when directing such scenes. In a separate interview with The Hindu, Koirala delved further into her concerns. “I am a little conservative in my approach. I was unsure if I would be a fit [for it]. I told Dibakar you might need a bolder person. I had seen and loved his short in Bombay Talkies. I knew he would make something sensible… At every step [Banerjee] was careful. He has been sensitive and respectful,” she explained.
The actress’s career rocketed to fame with the Nepali film ‘Pheri Bhetaula’ in 1989, before she made her mark in Bollywood with ‘Saudagar’ in 1991. Since then, Koirala has been a part of numerous critically acclaimed films, including ‘1942: A Love Story’, ‘Bombay’, ‘Indian’, ‘Gupt: The Hidden Truth’, ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’, ‘Dil Se..’, ‘Kachche Dhaage’, and ‘Ek Chhotisi Love Story’ to name a few.
Today, her performance in ‘Heeramandi’ is lauded with glowing reviews, exemplifying her talent and dedication to her craft. In a testament to her portrayal, veteran actress Rekha, who was initially offered the role many years ago, has offered her own words of praise for Koirala. Speaking to Filmygyaan, Manisha shared the emotional exchange they had. “She called me up the next day after watching Heeramandi. She said, ‘Bachcha, I was praying if I couldn’t do the role, you get to do it. My prayers have come true. You have done it marvelously, you have gone through so much in life. You have added soul to the role.’ To get a blessing and praise from an artist of her calibre is something else. I had tears in my eyes, and I told her, ‘You are making me cry.’ She loves me a lot.”
This reverence from Rekha is a powerful acknowledgment of the complexities and emotional depth Koirala brings to her characters. Having navigated a career with its share of harrowing challenges and magnificent triumphs, Manisha Koirala’s journey serves as an inspiring tale of resilience and artistic integrity for actors everywhere. Her openness about past struggles with on-screen intimacy further demonstrates the importance of creating a film environment where actors feel safe, respected, and empowered to deliver their best performances.
