Richa Chadha reveals that jewellery used in 'Heeramandi' is worth crores: 'Could make my own film if I ran away with it'

Richa Chadha

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut web series 'Heeramandi' currently streaming on Netflix. Set in the 1920s Lahore, the film focuses on the courtesans of 'Heeramandi' and their role in India's independence struggle. While the show opened to mixed reactions there has been unanimous praise for the lavish sets, costumes and jewellery used in the show. Richa Chadha who plays the role of Lajjo in the series revaled that all the jewellery used in the show is real and is worth crores.

In an interview with Sucharita Tyagi, Richa Chadha while sharing her experience of working on 'Heeramandi' said that all the jewellery was real. When asked if all the jewellery was indeed genuine, the actress added, "Yes, all of the jewellery is real. If I would wear all of it and run then I could make another film of my own, if I wore all of it cumulatively."

Meanwhile, Richa was initially offered a larger role and she deliberately chose the character of Lajjo, recognizing its potential to make a profound impact. Richa knew that Lajjo had the most heartbreaking arc, and the resemblance to Meena Kumari from Pakeezah and a female version of Devdas would definitely leave an impact.

Reflecting on her decision, Richa shares, "When I was approached for 'Heeramandi,' at the time Sanjay sir was the showrunner and I had been offered another part, one with more screentime for sure. But because an actor also needs to see, what's in here that's new for me, I chose Lajjo. I have experimented with characters that have a grey shade, like Bholi Punjaban or Tara in Madam Chief Minister. Basically I get accused of playing only empowerd characters, so I felt the need to break that stereotype and surprise the audience. I wanted to play a part of a hopeless romantic and leave the audience with gooseflesh. That's exactly what's happening. People are calling me in tears.

"Hence when sir told me, come and check this character out, I was immediately drawn to Lajjo. I was certain this would pay off and it has, the love within 24 hours has been overwhelming. Right from industry peers to filmmakers, to friends and audiences have sent me such amazing love, I couldn't be more grateful," she added.

. Additionally, the character's Kathak dance sequence in the show holds special significance for Richa, who is a trained Kathak dancer herself.

"I've always harbored a desire to incorporate Kathak dance into my onscreen roles, and 'Heeramandi' provided the perfect opportunity to do so," Richa added. "As a trained Kathak dancer, bringing Lajjo's dance number to life was a fulfilling experience for me, adding another layer of authenticity to the character."