What makes Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s movies unforgettable? Lavish production designs and dominant female characters stand out in blockbusters like Devdas, Bajirao Mastani, and Heeramandi.
Celebrating his birthday today, February 24, Bhansali crafts classic tales set against meticulously recreated historical backdrops. His sets are legendary, often rivaling the budgets of average Bollywood flicks. Devdas exemplifies this extravagance: 15 crores went into crafting Chandramukhi’s courtesan palace and Paro’s regal home. Aishwarya Rai’s wardrobe? A staggering 600 bespoke sarees.
Yet, it’s the portrayal of women that truly defines his oeuvre. Heroines like Mastani, Padmavati, and Heeramandi’s ensemble exude strength and poise, while male protagonists grapple with inner turmoil.
The roots trace back to Bhansali’s childhood. His mother, Leela, single-handedly raised her children amid struggles. She stitched garments, adorned sarees with intricate falls, and danced on modest platforms, her smile unbroken. This resilience fueled Bhansali’s commitment: every film would showcase women dancing triumphantly on magnificent stages, mirroring her fortitude.
Reflecting on Devdas, Bhansali equated his leading ladies to divine forces like Durga. Influenced deeply by Raj Kapoor’s emotional depth, he channels that mastery into his grand visions.
Bhansali doesn’t just make movies; he builds immersive universes where women’s strength shines brightest, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.