Sanjay Leela Bhansali Reveals His Lifelong Fascination with Padmavati's Story
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Synopsis
Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the acclaimed Indian filmmaker, has shared his enduring fascination with the story of Padmavati, a narrative he has cherished since childhood. His film 'Padmaavat' showcases this legendary tale through stunning visuals and powerful performances.
Key Takeaways
- Bhansali has been intrigued by Padmavati since childhood.
- The film 'Padmaavat' is a visual masterpiece.
- It features a blend of historical and fictional elements.
- Bhansali previously directed a stage musical version of Padmavati.
- The film will re-release in theaters on February 6, 2025.
Mumbai, Jan 27 (NationPress) Indian filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, renowned for his exceptional storytelling, has revealed that he has been captivated by the tale of Padmavati since his youth.
The film ‘Padmaavat’, which recently celebrated its 7-year milestone, presents the legendary narrative of Padmavati as a breathtaking visual masterpiece, characterized by lavish sets, detailed costumes, and moving music. Starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor, it stands out as one of Bhansali's most ambitious endeavors, showcasing unparalleled visual artistry.
Discussing the film, Sanjay Leela Bhansali expressed, “This adaptation is inspired by the poem ‘Padmaavat’ by Malik Mohammed Jayasi. Nonetheless, it also incorporates elements and figures from genuine historical accounts. My fascination with Padmavati has been a lifelong journey. Her elegance, dignity, bravery, and inner fortitude are profoundly motivating.”
He disclosed that he had longed to create a cinematic portrayal of Padmavati and even directed a musical stage production years prior.
Furthermore, he stated, “For an extended period, I aspired to craft a film about her life. Before embarking on that project, I had the opportunity to helm the stage adaptation of Padmavati, an opera in two acts composed by Albert Roussel which I directed in Paris in 2008.”
“This rendition of Padmavati was a grand production featuring elephants, tigers, and other animals on stage. It presented a dramatically different experience compared to the film. This project marked my initial exploration of evil in such profound detail. I had never delved into this realm before, and representing evil on such a grand scale was both new and challenging for me,” he added.
The film also featured Aditi Rao Hydari, Jim Sarbh, Raza Murad, and Anupriya Goenka in significant supporting roles.
Looking ahead, the film is set to be re-released in theaters on February 6, 2025.
