Manisha Koirala On The "Most Challenging" Heeramandi Fountain Scene: "I Knew I Had Passed A Critical Physical Test"

Manisha wrote, "It required me to be immersed in a water fountain for over 12 hours"

Manisha Koirala, soaring high with the success of Heeramandi, shared a long post about how the series turned out to be a "milestone" in her life professionally and personally. Manisha pointed out that she had never imagined life would give her a second opportunity after "turning 50" and battling with cancer. Manisha shared some beautiful snapshots from the series and wrote, "I could never have imagined that after cancer and turning 50, my life would flower into this other phase. Two reasons: 1. Heeramandi has been a significant milestone. As a 53-year-old actor who has bagged an important role in a high-profile web series, I am overjoyed that I'm not stuck playing insignificant peripheral roles, thanks to OTT platforms and changing audience profiles. Finally, female actors, technicians, and other professionals have started getting the long overdue and well-deserved good quality of work and respect in a professional environment. I am fortunate to be a part of this evolving era."

Manisha wrote about the second reason, "2. 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 jewelry, and perform a role requiring so much nuance and effortless effort?"

Manisha also recalled the experience of shooting the "most physically challenging" fountain sequence. FYI, Manisha was raped by the British officers as a price she paid to release her daughter Alamzeb from the clutches of the officers. After the gruelling torture, Manisha sat under a fountain to relieve her pain (physical and psychological). About the shooting experience, Manisha 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.) 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."