Celebrated filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, known for his larger-than-life cinematic experiences, recently attributed his success and relentless dedication to perfection to the values instilled in him by his father, Navin Bhansali. The director’s latest project, ‘Heeramandi,’ has once again showcased his refusal to settle for mediocrity—a principle deeply ingrained in him through his upbringing.
In a reflective conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Bhansali, recognized for his meticulous attention to detail and his often intense demeanor on set, opened up about the principles his father instilled in him. He fervently believes that compromising on one’s work is tantamount to committing a sin. “That’s blasphemy. That is like committing a sin for me. If, to the best of your ability, that shot has to be done… that’s why I feel like I have done less work over the past 30 years. I have done like 10 films and I give everything to that one shot. That shot is God’s gift to you,” Bhansali explained with palpable emotion.
Bhansali’s journey into the world of film did not begin overnight. He reminisced about his father’s unfulfilled dream of seeing him become a filmmaker and how it took until the age of 36 to realize that vision. For Sanjay, every frame he crafts is a tribute to his father’s dreams and aspirations. “For so many years, you have seen your father dream about you making a film and then you struggle and at the age of 36 you get your first chance to make a film. It has come with so much… I am not an insider. So, everything you value so much. That one shot matters so much that to compromise with it is a sin which I would never forgive myself for,” he shared.
His filmography, despite being brief in comparison to other directors with similar tenure, is marked by an unparalleled dedication to visual storytelling. Over the past three decades, Bhansali has created a mere 10 films, but each one resonates with the care and precision with which it was crafted. “I would never want to say sorry on my death bed about some five shots that I missed. No question about it. That’s one moment where I want to look up into the eyes of God and I hope that I did well. And I feel people appreciate it and they give me love. Not that everybody likes my work but they care for me because of that love for one shot,” Bhansali articulated, underscoring the deep connection between his work ethic and his personal philosophy.
In another interview with Galatta Plus, Bhansali further delved into the essence of his artistic identity, particularly concerning ‘Heeramandi,’ a film that, despite its romantic underpinnings, faced scrutiny over historical accuracies. “In my mind, it was the most romantic place to be in. I come from that world. I’ve always watched films with pimps and prostitutes around in the theatres. My cinema will always have that dramatic touch and that larger-than-life approach, which is not subtle, which is not delicate, but it is heartfelt. It’ll have the dignity of it being told on the screen because I work on the visual of it. It has to be worthy of being there because I’m reliving a certain moment of my life, of this life, maybe past life.”
Bhansali’s films are known for their opulent visuals and intricate set designs, capturing the hearts of many who appreciate the grandeur of his storytelling. This grandiose style is no accident; it is a deliberate choice rooted in his passion and reverence for the art of filmmaking. Each project is more than just a film; it is an intimate recounting of a moment, a life experience, or an emotional truth, often rendered with a historical or cultural narrative.
Revisiting his entry into the filmmaking world, Bhansali recounted the challenges he faced as an outsider. His journey was not a straightforward path, but one marred by struggle and perseverance. “For so many years, you have seen your father dream about you making a film and then you struggle and at the age of 36 you get your first chance to make a film.”
The consistent theme throughout Bhansali’s discourse is one of an unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity in his work. He stands as a testament to the notion that true artistry cannot be rushed or compromised. His father’s influence serves as a cornerstone of his success, shaping his profound belief in the sanctity of his craft.
For Sanjay Leela Bhansali, filmmaking is not just a profession but a spiritual pursuit. He continues to inspire countless aspiring filmmakers to never compromise on their vision and to honor the art of storytelling with every frame they create.
