Rekha's 1981 film Umrao Jaan is scheduled for its theatrical re-release today (June 27). The movie is about a Lucknow tawaif and poet who became well-known. Some moviegoers thought that Umrao Jaan served as Sanjay Leela Bhansali's inspiration for Heeramandi. The movie's director, Muzaffar Ali, discussed the series and refuted any comparisons in a Times Now interview.

Heeramandi is reviewed by Muzaffar Ali

I have only seen one episode of Heeramandi, Muzaffar said, and I can't really compare it to Umrao Jaan. That's something else and a massive undertaking. Mine is unique, but it has its own. It's quite challenging to compare. Additionally, that requires a great deal of work. My path has led me from trunks to closets to cupboards; I have a unique love for textiles.

He went on to discuss Bhansali's series, saying, "Heeramandi is nice but over-the-top. It is too palatial and rich. I wouldn't do that. I would use a different language.

Richa Chadha, who appeared in Heeramandi, told an audience earlier at an event that her dance in the series was inspired by the song Ye Kya Jagah Hai from Umrao Jaan, saying, "Receiving praise and love from someone as revered as Rekha ji is a moment I will cherish forever." My heart is full, and I could not have sought greater confirmation. One of the songs in the series is my solo mujra. I cited her song from Umrao Jaan, Ye kya jagah hai doston, as evidence. She is the epitome of an icon, my hero, and my inspiration. I was overcome with emotion and unable to speak after seeing her kind words and love for my performance in Heeramandi. I'll always remember this evening and her blessings, genuinely.

The re-release of Umrao Jaan

The National Film Development Corporation–National Film Archive of India restored the movie as part of the National Film Heritage Mission. The movie follows Amiran's (Rekha) arrival in a 19th-century Lucknow brothel and her connections to three significant people, played by Naseeruddin Shah, Raj Babbar, and Farooque Shaikh.

Alia Bhatt, who imitated Rekha's appearance from Silsila and stole the show, was among the celebrities who attended a recent special screening of the film in Mumbai, which Rekha hosted. Other attendees included Aamir Khan, AR Rahman, Anil Kapoor, Raj Babbar, Ila Arun, and Hema Malini.

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