Sharmin Segal, the niece of renowned director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, has recently been in the spotlight for her pivotal role in Bhansali’s debut web series, Heeramandi.
The Netflix original series, set in pre-independence India, tells the stories of courtesans living in a world of love, power, and freedom. This role marks a significant milestone in Segal’s career, showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress.
Facing The Trolls
Undeterred by the harsh criticism, Segal has demonstrated her unwavering determination. Despite facing significant backlash from a segment of the internet audience, with critics questioning her suitability for the role and accusing her of nepotism, Segal has remained focused on her craft and her passion for acting.
The negativity, which even led to the disabling of comments on some of her Instagram posts, has not shaken her resolve.
Sharmin’s Response
In a conversation with News18 Showsha, Segal addressed the criticism, stating,
“The audience is the king at the end of the day. And as a creative person, it’s very important to acknowledge that. They have a right to their opinion – positive or negative. That’s one thing that gives me perspective and allows me to be okay.”
Focusing On The Positives
Segal emphasized the importance of focusing on the positives, stating,
“I had given my all to Alamzeb’s character. We tend to fixate on the negatives but there are so many positives that have also come along, which we don’t talk about. It’s perhaps not interesting enough to talk about positives and we tend to look over them to some degree.”
Co-Stars And Colleagues Defend Sharmin
Sharmin Segal’s co-stars and colleagues have formed a solid united front, offering unwavering support. Taha Shah Badussha, who plays Tajdar Baloch in Heeramandi, quickly defended Segal, stating that comparing her to seasoned actresses like Manisha Koirala was unfair.
He praised Segal for her punctuality and dedication to her role. Similarly, the show’s casting director, Shruti Mahajan, stood up for Segal’s portrayal of Alamzeb, explaining that she followed the brief. This united front of support has been a source of strength for Segal in the face of criticism.
Sharmin’s Journey In Heeramandi
Despite criticism, Sharmin Segal remains steadfast in her commitment to her craft. She believes that the audience’s opinion will help her become the best version of herself. As she continues to navigate her career in the entertainment industry, Segal’s story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the meaning of resilience and positivity in the face of adversity.