Ali Fazal Praises Richa, Rekha Moved With Tears
Premiere screening stirred emotions as Richa Chadha's performance moved Ali Fazal & Rekha.

Image: Instagram
Ali Fazal recently opened up in an intimate interview about his experience at the premiere screening of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s upcoming series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. Sharing a candid moment alongside his wife, Richa Chadha – who plays the pivotal role of Lajjo – Fazal expressed heartfelt admiration for her performance, revealing just how deeply the event affected him.
A Night Of Emotions Unveiled
The premiere was more than a typical launch event. It became a platform for raw emotions and personal revelations. Fazal recalled watching Richa’s character’s death scene in episode two and admitted, “I was totally teary‑eyed. I thought, okay, maybe it’s my bias.” He was visibly moved by the intensity of the performance, a reaction that he insists can only be described as a testament to the power of emotive storytelling in contemporary Bollywood.
In the midst of his own emotional response, Fazal noticed a surprising and touching moment to his right. The legendary Rekha, an icon whose career spans decades, was moved to tears as well. “I look on my right, and there’s Rekha ji in tears,” he revealed. The sight of Rekha’s emotional response carried significant weight: not only does it confirm the impact of Richa’s performance across generations, but it also hints at a deep connection between classic cinema and modern narratives.
The Legacy And The New Narrative
Rekha’s tears held added symbolism considering her history with the project’s evolution. Reportedly, she was the original choice for the role of Mallikajaan when Heeramandi was first conceptualized in the mid‑2000s. This historical link between Rekha and the series adds layers of nostalgia and reverence, connecting the old guard of Bollywood with today’s emerging storytelling. Rekha’s remark – “Tumne humein humare zamane ki yaad dila di” – resonated not only as praise for Richa’s performance but also as an acknowledgment of the enduring legacy of Bollywood icons.
A Family Affair And The Impact On Fans
With Richa Chadha performing with such conviction, the screening turned into a family affair of emotions. For Ali Fazal, who has spent years in the industry and witnessed countless premieres, the night stood out due to its unique blend of personal and professional sentiment. It is rare for an actor of Fazal’s caliber to so openly share his vulnerability, yet his remarks reflected a blend of admiration and a hint of sentimentality when discussing both his wife’s artistry and Rekha’s legendary presence.
For fans witnessing this unfolding drama both on social media and in the theatre, the event provided a refreshing glimpse into the behind‐the-scenes camaraderie and tradition that Bollywood holds dear. The shared emotional experience transformed a routine screening into a memorable celebration of performance, legacy, and art. The featured Instagram post by Bollywood Bubble captures this essence perfectly – a snapshot that not only highlights the glamorous red carpet event but also underscores the sincerity behind every tear shed in that darkened theatre.
Bridging Generations Through Art
The premiere of Heeramandi is significant not just for its cinematic ambitions but also for the way it bridges different eras of film. Rekha’s nostalgic connection through her initial association with the project, paired with Richa Chadha’s passionate portrayal, creates a dialogue that spans generations. When a modern actor like Ali Fazal is seen openly admiring his wife’s performance, it speaks volumes of the evolving sentiments in Bollywood where tradition and innovation coexist.
This moment is a reminder that at the heart of every film or series lies storytelling that touches the human spirit. When icons like Rekha express their admiration and when contemporary stars such as Fazal allow their guard to drop, audiences are offered not just entertainment, but a profound narrative of shared history and collective emotions.
An Event To Remember
As the lights dimmed and conversations continued long after the screening ended, the premiere of Heeramandi emerged as an exemplar of how performances can evoke memories and emotions beyond the confines of scripted drama. Fazal’s heartfelt admission and Rekha’s tearful tribute encapsulate a night where artistry transcended the ordinary boundaries of cinema. It is a rare intersection of personal bias, professional respect, and timeless talent—a combination that makes such events truly unforgettable.
Ultimately, the screening was more than a promotional event; it was a celebration of Bollywood’s rich past and promising future. Richa Chadha’s performance has sparked conversations among fans, critics, and celebrities alike, reaffirming the idea that emotions are the true measure of art’s success. In a world increasingly driven by digital trends and fleeting moments, the genuine reactions captured that night stand as a testament to the enduring power of heartfelt storytelling.
Fazal’s reflections and the shared sentiments of cinema legends remind the audience that every performance is layered with personal history and emotion. The premiere of Heeramandi, marked by tears and praise alike, is poised to leave an indelible mark on Bollywood history, setting a benchmark for performances that move both hearts and minds.

Read full bio of Jehangir Irroni