In an exclusive revelation, Bollywood star Sonakshi Sinha has shared the incredible dedication and hard work that went into mastering the ancient martial art of Kalari for her standout performance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.
The actress, who plays a significant role in the Netflix series, underwent rigorous training to perfect the mythical Jatadhara sequence that has been captivating audiences worldwide. "It was one of the most challenging experiences of my career," Sinha confessed during a recent interview.
The Grueling Preparation
Sinha described the intense physical transformation required for the role, emphasizing that Kalari - considered one of the oldest fighting systems in existence - demanded complete mental and physical commitment. "People see the final beautiful result on screen, but they don't know the months of blood, sweat, and tears that went into making that sequence look authentic," she revealed.
Beyond Physical Prowess
The actress explained that mastering Kalari wasn't just about learning the movements but understanding the philosophy behind this ancient Indian martial art. "There's a spiritual element to Kalari that connects the mind, body, and soul. Bhansali sir wanted that depth to come through in the performance," Sinha noted.
Her dedication to the craft showcases the level of commitment Bollywood actors are bringing to their roles in the streaming era, where audiences expect nothing short of perfection in period dramas and historical pieces.