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After enduring relentless trolling from naysayers, actor Imran Abbas's claims of being offered significant Bollywood roles have been vindicated. At the Los Angeles premiere of "Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar," filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali confirmed Imran's candidacy, along with two other prominent Pakistani stars.

Bhansali shared insights into the show's journey, tracing its evolution from a potential film starring Indian and Pakistani luminaries to its current stellar cast, which he expressed deep satisfaction with. Speaking to Lilly Singh, Bhansali revealed the intricate casting process spanning 18 years, with names like Rekha, Kareena, and Rani Mukerji initially considered before evolving into the final ensemble.

In a surprising twist, Bhansali disclosed considering Pakistani actors Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, and Imran Abbas for roles before the project's direction changed. Imran, having previously mentioned being approached for a role, shared the LA interview clip on his Instagram Stories as validation.

Despite casting fluctuations, Bhansali expressed contentment with the final lineup, featuring talents like Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, and Aditi Rao Hydari, embodying his vision for the narrative set in pre-Independence Lahore.

Scheduled to premiere on May 1, "Heeramandi" represents Bhansali's foray into the world of pre-Independence Lahore, showcasing the lives of courtesans and nawabs. With meticulous craftsmanship and a production journey spanning nearly three years, the series promises cinematic excellence.