Streaming service Netflix shared the first look of actor Fardeen Khan from "Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar" on Saturday, unveiling the upcoming period drama series that marks filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut on OTT platforms.
The streamer also revealed character posters of senior actor Shekhar Suman, his son Adhyayan Suman, and Taha Shah from the show, which is set during the freedom struggle movement in India.
With "Heeramandi," Khan returns to acting after a hiatus of nearly 15 years. His last appearance was in 2010's "Dulha Mil Gaya."
The 50-year-old actor, renowned for movies such as "Jungle," "Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya," "Bhoot," "Dev," and "No Entry," portrays the character of Wali Mohammed in the series.
"Caught in a whirlwind struggle of love and duty, Wali Mohammed attempts to reconcile his heart's desire with his royal responsibilities. Fardeen Khan makes his spectacular return to the screen as Wali Mohammed," Netflix posted on its social media handles alongside Khan's character poster.
Described as an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom, the series delves into the cultural reality of 'Heeramandi,' a dazzling district, through the stories of courtesans and their patrons set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s.
Scheduled for release on the streamer's platform on May 1, "Heeramandi" features Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Sanjeeda Shaikh in lead roles.
"Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar" is based on Moin Beg's concept. The series is created and directed by Bhansali, who also serves as a producer.