Renowned actor Shekhar Suman recently highlighted the distinction between courtesans and sex workers in an interview with Radio City, which ignited an important discussion on the social structures that define their roles and perspectives. Let’s explore Suman’s perceptive viewpoint and the story he highlights.
Shekhar Suman on Sex Workers vs Courtesans
Suman strongly advocated the idea that sex workers and courtesans should be distinguished from one another, highlighting the social constraints and situations that sometimes push people into both professions. “The society is what has shaped them in this manner,” he said.
Shekhar Suman said, “Their contribution to the society is immense… Jaha se hum aate hai, jis tareeka ki bhookh jo mardo mein hai, uska jo channelise waha hota hai uski wajah se samaj bacha rehta hai (The society is safe because men get to channelise their sexual hunger through sex workers).”
Heeramandi – A Legacy Beyond Labels
Suman’s historical examination depicts Heeramandi as an educational and refined establishment rather than just a place for pleasure. He clarified, saying, “Heeramandi used to be a centre where people went to study different talents, including music, painting, and etiquette. It was like a ‘finishing school’ where even nobles sought education.”
He also highlighted the important role of courtesans in the freedom movement, “There is nothing wrong with being a courtesan… Their contribution to the freedom movement was also significant. They died unsung, unknown,” Suman expressed.
Shekhar Suman’s Most Watched Scene in Heeramandi
Recently, Shekhar Suman also discussed about the most watched scene of his in Heeramandi. “So, this scene, where my character is drunk, it was a normal sequence but director Sanjay Leela Bhansali felt the subtext of the sequence was different,” Suman explains. Bhansali proposed a more unconventional approach to portray the scene’s underlying message. “Bhansali suggested we do it differently, where I am doing this mid-air… He asked, ‘Are you open for it? If not, that is okay,’ because the scene can turn out really ridiculous, it is a fine line, a tightrope. But I was up for it, and told him main bilkul karuga and we just went into it.”
Heeramandi – A Multifaceted Narrative
With a cast that includes Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, and others, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is currently available for watching on Netflix. It delves into the complex aspects of women’s lives and struggles.
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