Preity Zinta calls Manisha Koirala a ‘powerhouse talent’ after watching Heeramandi; recalls working with her in Dil Se

Manisha Koirala is revelling in the praise for her portrayal of Mallikajaan in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. Taking to her Instagram, she shared insights into her experience working on the show and the demands it placed on her as an actor. Reflecting on the challenges encountered during filming, she expressed gratitude for being part of the project. Actress Preity Zinta commented on the post and recalled Manisha Koirala for being ‘welcoming’ to her during her first film Dil Se.

Manisha Koirala’s social media post

Recalling a particularly gruelling scene involving a water fountain, Koirala revealed, “Today, when I am receiving so many accolades, I can’t help but remember the doubts and anxiety that plagued me when I was about to start shooting. Still recovering from the dreaded C, would my body be strong enough to deal with the intense shooting schedules, heavy costumes, and jewellery, and perform a role requiring so much nuance and effortless effort?”

She wrote, “The fountain sequence proved the most physically challenging. It required me to be immersed in a water fountain for over 12 hours. That tested my resilience! Even though Sanjay had thoughtfully ensured that the water was warm and clean, over the hours, the water turned muddy, (because my team members, the Cinematographer, and the art director’s team were getting into the water to work around the scene.) “

The caption continued “Every single pore in my body was soaked in that muddy water. Even though I was beyond exhaustion by the end of the shoot, I felt a deep happiness within my heart. My body had taken the stress and remained resilient. I knew I had passed a critical physical test. To you, who think your time has come and gone, whether it’s due to age, illness or any setback, never give up! You never know what could be waiting for you around the bend!”

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A post shared by Manisha Koirala (@m_koirala)

Preity Zinta calls Manisha Koirala a ‘Hero’

Preity Zinta dropped a heartwarming comment under the post. She said, “I love you Manisha (red heart emoticons) I saw the show for you & you killed it. You are such a powerhouse of talent & an even better human being. I will never forget how lovely, welcoming & generous you were to me in Dil Se. Thanks to you I started my film journey on such a positive note. You never made me feel I was working with a superstar & nurtured me on the shoot – always smiling, accommodating & ready for rehearsal & suggestions. You will always be Hero on & off camera. More power to you always.”

Preity’s acting debut was in a supporting role in Dil Se, which starred Shah Rukh Khan and Manisha in lead roles. Directed by Mani Ratnam, the film was released in 1998.

Also Read: Heeramandi star Manisha Koirala recalls feeling lonely during her battle with cancer; says, ‘Nobody was there’