In an illuminating interview about the new web series Heeramandi, actress Sharmin Segal made waves when she playfully described her co-star Aditi Rao Hydari as a ‘school girl’ for her impeccable punctuality. The light-hearted comment has drawn much attention, further catapulting both stars and the series itself into the media spotlight.
Sharmin Segal and Aditi Rao Hydari are not the only stars gracing the screens in Heeramandi. They are joined by actors Taaha Shah, Fardeen Khan, Richa Chadha, and Sanjeeda Sheikh. Together, the ensemble cast delivered compelling performances that have stirred conversations among audiences. However, it was during a recent interview with IMDB that a snippet showcasing Sharmin teasing Aditi caught public interest.
Not mincing her words, Sharmin lauded Aditi Rao Hydari for her disciplined nature on set, comparing her rigor to that of a dutiful schoolgirl. “Teacher will say you have to submit your homework at this time and Aditi will do exactly that and not one more word than the word count limit. That is Aditi for you. So, according to her, everyone is late, and she is on time,” Sharmin jested, evidently highlighting Aditi’s reliability and commitment to punctuality.
While this playful exchange managed to spark a slew of comments and shares online, Sharmin Segal found herself addressing more serious issues surrounding Heeramandi. The series, while garnering a fair share of praise, has also faced significant criticism. The backlash primarily focuses on the series’ portrayal of sensitive themes, such as non-consensual sex, the suffering of women, and the aestheticization of their pain.
As an actor in the series and the niece of the famous director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Sharmin has faced personal attacks and heavy scrutiny since Heeramandi’s release on May 1st. Critics have been unforgiving about her performance, labeling it as subpar. The wave of criticism has been so severe that it led Sharmin to restrict comments on her Instagram account, an action revealing the toll that online trolling has taken on her.
In a candid conversation with BBC Asian Network, Sharmin opened up about dealing with the ceaseless wave of criticism and the intense pressure she has been under.
. “There is a lot of pressure and sometimes it manifests in weird ways,” she admitted. She also shared that her strongest support comes from her sister, who fortuitously worked as an assistant director on Heeramandi. “I think my strongest support system is my sister. She also happened to be an assistant director on the show. So, it worked out in a way where I do have my outlets where I can vent,” she explained. This close-knit familial support seems to be a crucial anchor for Sharmin during these tumultuous times.
On social media, Sharmin’s remarks about Aditi Rao Hydari have seen rampant sharing and engagement. Aditi, who is often praised for her serene demeanor and talent, appears to be equally respected for her professional ethics. Punctuality, though a seemingly simple trait, was given a notable platform through Sharmin’s light-hearted comments, bringing it to the forefront of discussions regarding professional behavior in the entertainment industry.
Both actresses, apart from their on-screen chemistry, seem to share a respectful and playful rapport off-screen as well. Fans have taken to commenting on their camaraderie, suggesting it adds a deeper layer of authenticity to their performances in Heeramandi. Sharmin’s jest about Aditi’s punctuality has not just been a fleeting remark but an enduring testament to her co-star’s professionalism, an aspect highly valued on hectic film and series sets.
As Heeramandi continues to stir diverse opinions among audiences, the actors at its forefront wrestle with both acclaim and critique. Whether through playful banter marking Aditi as the most punctual ‘school girl’, or through addressing the darker shadows of backlash, the candor exhibited by Sharmin Segal reflects a nuanced understanding of the industry’s ebbs and flows.
Despite the polarizing reception of Heeramandi, the actors remain in the spotlight, navigating the complex landscape of fame, criticism, and adulation. The interplay of their on-screen and off-screen personas continues to captivate, providing an additional layer of narrative that fans and critics alike are keenly following.
