Heeramandi, the latest venture from renowned director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, has been making waves since its debut on Netflix. While the period drama has garnered significant viewership and praise, it hasn’t been immune to criticism, particularly surrounding its portrayal of sensitive themes. At the center of the storm is actor Sharmin Segal Mehta, who plays a pivotal role in the series and happens to be Bhansali’s niece. Despite the acclaim, Sharmin has found herself facing a barrage of criticism for her performance, prompting her to address the issue head-on.
In a recent interview, Sharmin opened up about the challenges of navigating criticism in the digital age. She acknowledged the pressure that comes with being in the public eye but emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy perspective. “There is a lot of pressure, and sometimes it manifests in weird ways,” she shared. “But I have a really good support system. I think my strongest support system is my sister, who also happened to be an assistant director on the show. So, it worked out in a way where I do have my outlets where I can vent.”
Despite the backlash, Sharmin remains grounded, prioritizing her mental well-being above all else. “In my personal life, I am secure enough today to come home to my husband and put everything that I have done at work aside,” she explained. “But I am not that person who’s gonna constantly put that much pressure on it. Yes, I do want to prove myself, but today I am also a realist in that way.”
Sharmin’s pragmatic approach extends to how she views criticism from the public. “We live in a world of 1.7 billion people, in India itself. After all, how many people’s opinions are you gonna shape or have control over?” she reflected. “In that way, if I start taking all that pressure on myself… I am a very strong advocate for mental health and living a happy life. So, I do want to do what I want to do, and I would love for everyone to love Alamzeb (her character). But, at the end of the day, there will be people who have to say what they have to say.”
Sharmin’s resilience in the face of criticism is commendable, highlighting the importance of prioritizing mental health and self-care, especially in the demanding world of entertainment. As she continues to pursue her passion for acting, it’s clear that she won’t let negativity dim her shine.
In the midst of the controversy, it’s important to recognize the artistic merit of Heeramandi. As noted by The Indian Express’ Shubhra Gupta, the series effectively captures the faded grandeur of its characters, offering a nuanced portrayal of their lives amidst opulence and adversity.
Sharmin Segal’s journey serves as a reminder that success is not measured solely by accolades but by the strength to persevere in the face of criticism. As she forges ahead in her career, she remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and artists alike, proving that resilience and self-belief are the ultimate keys to success.
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