Sharmin Segal, who has been at the center of intense scrutiny for her portrayal of Alamzeb in the web series “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar,” has finally addressed the criticism she has faced. In a candid interview with News18, Segal shared her thoughts on the backlash and the overall reception of her performance.
“I had given my all to Alamzeb’s character,” Sharmin began. “We tend to fixate on the negatives, but there are so many positives that also come along, which we don’t talk about. It’s perhaps not interesting enough to discuss the positives, so we tend to overlook them. At one point, I avoided many reviews, but then I realized I was also missing out on a lot of love I was receiving. I’ve now started paying attention to that and decided to look through it all over the last few days.”
Sharmin emphasized the importance of constructive criticism in her growth as an artist. “I saw positivity, constructive criticism, and a whole range of feedback, which is what happens when you put yourself out there as an artist or actor. It was actually quite nice to hear all sides. It’s an inevitability. Opinions shape you both as an actor and a human being. These are real people responding to you, making you realize the extent of your reach. These opinions are very important.”
Despite her dedication, a section of the audience has not been kind, slamming her performance in the web series directed by her uncle, Sanjay Leela Bhansali. In addition to her acting, Sharmin has been criticized for perceived rude behavior and comments directed towards her Heeramandi co-stars during interviews.
“Heeramandi” features an ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Richa Chadha, Fardeen Khan, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, Adhyayan Suman, Farida Jalal, and Indresh Malik. Set before the partition, the show focuses on courtesans who held significant power and influence during India’s struggle for independence. On Monday, Netflix announced that a second season of Bhansali’s “Heeramandi” is in the works.
Sharmin’s reflections on the criticism and the outpouring of support she has received highlight the complexities actors face in the public eye. Her acknowledgment of both negative and positive feedback demonstrates a balanced approach to personal and professional growth.
As the anticipation builds for the second season of “Heeramandi,” Sharmin’s commitment to her craft and her willingness to engage with all feedback may prove pivotal in shaping her future performances and career.