Leaving behind the dark setting of Dahaad, Sonakshi Sinha has moved to the vibrant and extravagant world of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi, which tells the story of courtesans of pre-independence India. “That’s the beauty of being an actor. You can be a new person every day,” smiles the actor, as she accommodates an interaction while shooting for her second web series.

The Netflix series — also starring Manisha Koirala, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Shaikh and Sharmin Segal — is a highly anticipated project as it marks Bhansali’s foray into the digital medium. 

All eyes are on the auteur as he brings his signature grandeur and opulence to a streaming platform. Sinha considers herself fortunate to be a Bhansali heroine — the filmmaker, after all, is known to give his leading ladies author-backed roles. So, how is it working with the maverick director?

“With Sanjay sir, it’s like watching a magic show unfold. Only he can do what he does. I believe he is one of those directors who bring out the best in all his actors. It’s a privilege to be directed by him.”