‘Heeramandi’ actor Jason Shah recalls being taken into a corner by ADs before an intimate scene: ‘You think I am going to touch her inappropriately or something?’

Actor Jason Shah, who recently played a crucial role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s web series ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, recently opened up about the ‘stressful’ atmosphere on the sets which led to disjointed production and conflicting directions given to the actors. Talking to Bollywood Now, Jason divulged about some of the unpleasant directions from Bhansali’s assistants.
Jason confessed that he hadn't gone through the entire screenplay and had perceived Cartwright as a character who straightforwardly resorts to violence based on his understanding.He mentioned facing disruptions due to lack of proper organization, with his scenes being shot intermittently over a prolonged period. This inconsistency gradually impacted his portrayal of the character.
Jason recounted an incident involving Bhansali's assistants leading him aside before an intimate scene with Sonakshi Sinha. Despite his admiration for Sinha, he felt uncomfortable as if he was being perceived negatively. Three assistants approached him, isolating him in a studio, reminding him of his scene with Sinha. This made him feel uneasy, as if he was being suspected of inappropriate behaviour.
Jason Shah further commented on the situation, expressing his understanding of the practice. He noted that it's common for Indian productions to recruit Russians from Goa and cast them in roles. According to him, these individuals lack acting skills and camera knowledge, often participating solely for basic necessities like food and shelter.

Helmed by Bhansali, ‘Heeramandi’ has Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Sharmin Segal, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Fardeen Khan, and, Taha Shah Badussha in the lead roles.