Did you know Heeramandi star Taha Shah Badussha was once rejected by Sanjay Leela Bhansali? Here’s what happened next

Did you know Heeramandi star Taha Shah Badussha was once rejected by Sanjay Leela Bhansali? Here's what happened next

As a die-hard fan of Taha Shah Badussha, I can’t help but be in awe of his incredible journey in Bollywood. The moment I saw him steal the limelight as Tajdar Baloch in Sanjay Leela Bhansali‘s Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, I knew this was an actor destined for greatness.


Taha Shah Badussha, who made his film debut with “Luv Ka The End” in 2011, gained noticeable attention in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix series “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar” this year. In the show, Taha portrayed the character of Tajdar Baloch. Following its release, critics and fans have showered him with appreciation for his acting skills.

Did you know that Bhansali initially turned down Taha Shah’s offer for a role, but later gave him the leading part as Tajdar in Heeramandi instead?

When Bhansali rejected Taha Shah for a role

According to a recent Filmfare interview by Taha Shah Badussha, he wasn’t the original choice for “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.” Instead, another actor, Tajdar Baloch, was initially cast. However, Sanjay Leela Bhansali ultimately decided against him and encouraged Taha to pursue other projects.

The Heeramandi star received a phone call, informing him that the filmmaker had chosen to pursue a different casting option instead.

Taha Shah recalls being devastated and pleading with Bhansali at his office

Taha Shah was deeply saddened by the news and immediately went to Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s office. Before Bhansali had a chance to speak, Luv Ka The End actor earnestly begged for the role.

After soothing Taha’s agitation, Bhansali shared with him an alternate role proposal. He suggested that Taha should consider auditioning for the part of Tajdar Balloch in the movie instead.

Taha considered it the most delightful surprise of his career and vowed to put in his finest effort for the main part in Heeramandi.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is a “perfectionist”, says Taha Shah

During the same interview, Taha Shah Badussha commended Sanjay Leela Bhansali for his meticulous attention to detail.

He didn’t label the person as overly stern. In fact, I have to admit I can be just as demanding. Being strict is essential for achieving success, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

“Being in love with one’s work brings about the greatest positivity. It’s not a matter of anger, but rather deep-rooted passion. As the Heeramandi actor put it, ‘Even I have such feelings.'”

I had the pleasure of watching “Heeramandi” alongside talented actors like Manisha Koirala, Sharmin Sehgal, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chaddha, and Aditi Rao Hydari, among others. This captivating series was unveiled to the world on May 1, 2024.

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2024-07-20 22:22