New Delhi: Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is well-known for his magnum opus dramas featuring opulent sets, is all set to enthrall audiences with his upcoming venture 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.' The series featuring an ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala and Sonakshi Sinha among others, marks Bhansali's digital debut. The much-anticipated series will have its digital premiere on the streaming platform Netflix on May 1.
'Heeramandi' is touted to be Bhansali's most ambitious project till date and marks his foray into the digital landscape. The makers are leaving no stone unturned to keep the audience on their toes by releasing the trailer and teaser that give a glimpse of the beauty and grandeur of Bhansali's cinematic world and its inhabitants. Based on the script by Moin Beg, 'Heeramandi' saw the light of the day after much delay as Bhansali was busy directing 'Devdas' and his other blockbuster films.
While Sanjay Leela Bhansali tries to do justice to the story of 'Heeramandi' by making it on such a grand scale, it becomes inevitable for the audience to know the real story of 'Heeramandi' before watching the series, in order to a have a better viewing experience.
The story of the original 'Heeramandi'
Heera Mandi, also known as the Diamond Market, holds a significant place in the history and culture of Lahore, Pakistan. Situated within the Walled City of Lahore, this neighborhood and bazaar have witnessed a rich heritage of events and transformations over the centuries.
Heera Mandi was originally named 'Hira Singh Di Mandi' after Hira Singh Dogra, a prime minister of the Sikh Empire. The place was envisioned as an economic hub akin to a bazaar, in addition to housing tawaifs/courtesans, professional entertainers associated with the royal court. The area was located near the Taxali Gate and south of the Badshahi Mosque. It evolved into a vibrant cultural center during the Mughal period.
During the Mughal era, Heera Mandi gained recognition for its courtesan culture, with women trained in classical Indian music, Kathak dance, poetry, and etiquette. These courtesans entertained the Mughal elite with their exquisite artistry, performing in kothas and even at the royal court. Maharaja Ranjit Singh reinstated various Mughal royal rituals in Lahore, including the patronage of courtesans and their court performances, playing a significant role in elevating the cultural importance of the place.
However, with the advent of British colonial rule, Heera Mandi gradually transformed into a red light district, primarily known for prostitution. Despite this shift, the area retained its reputation as a center of performing arts, earning the nickname 'Bazaar-e-Husn' or 'Market of Beauty'. Post partition, Heeramandi continued to uphold its importance as a hub of cultural eloquence with courtesans joining the Pakistani film industry popularly known as Lollywood.
Over time, the crackdown on prostitution and changing social norms have impacted Heera Mandi. While the area still retains elements of its vibrant past, including its traditional bazaar atmosphere during the day, the practice of prostitution has declined, with many brothels converted into food streets, restaurants, and shops.
Heera Mandi remains a symbol of Lahore's cultural heritage owing to its history, unbothered by the controversies around it. The historic place serves as a reminder of the city's rich Mughal legacy and the enduring influence of its vibrant arts on the entertainment scene. However, the area's evolution also reflects broader societal changes and challenges, highlighting the complex interplay between tradition, modernity, and social norms in contemporary Pakistan.
About Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi'
The captivating trailer of Bhansali's series immerses viewers into the vibrant district of Heeramandi, where the formidable Mallikajaan, portrayed by Manisha Koirala, reigns supreme over an esteemed establishment of courtesans. Mallikajaan encounters a new challenge with the unexpected return of Fareedan, played by Sonakshi Sinha, the daughter of her late adversary, sparking tensions within the household. Beyond the confines of Heeramandi, the city pulses with revolutionary fervor as patriots rally for India's independence from British rule, with Bibbojaan, portrayed by Aditi Rao Hydari, one of Mallikajaan’s daughters, joining the struggle. Meanwhile, Alamzeb, Mallikajaan’s youngest, nurtures dreams of love with Tajdar, played by Taha Shah Badussha, the son of a nobleman, longing to break free from the constraints of Heeramandi.
In the midst of escalating betrayals and the clash between forbidden desires and societal norms, the fight for India's freedom during the pre-independence era reaches a critical juncture. Against this tumultuous backdrop, Mallikajaan and Fareedan find themselves locked in an epic battle for the coveted title of the huzoor, or the lady, of Heeramandi.