Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaaris a period drama series directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali for Netflix, and starring some major faces from Indian cinema. The show takes place in the red-light district of Lahore during pre-independence India and centers on the lives of courtesans, exploring the power dynamics, emotional struggles, and political turmoil they face in a rapidly changing world. Bhansali is known for his grand visual storytelling, andHeeramandiis no exception, blending intricate narratives with stunning set designs.
Each character inHeeramandiplays a distinct role in advancing the narrative. Mallikajaan, the matriarch, exercises control over the courtesans and serves as a central figure in the power dynamics of the series. Younger characters like Alamzeb represent the next generation, navigating the changing landscape of their world. The show’s themes focus on the intersection of power, ambition, and personal struggles in a historical setting. The cast includes actors known for their work inIndian cinema, with their performances contributing to the depth of the character-driven plot.
Manisha Koirala as Mallikajaan
Date of Birth: June 06, 2025
Actor:Manisha Koirala is an acclaimed actress with a remarkable career spanning over three decades. Born into a politically prominent family in Nepal, Koirala made her Bollywood debut inSaudagarand quickly established herself as one of the leading actresses of the 1990s with films likeBombayandDil Se. A cancer survivor, Koirala has also symbolized resilience and strength in her personal life.
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Character:InHeeramandi, Koirala portrays Mallikajaan, the fierce and calculating matriarch of the courtesans. Mallikajaan wields significant influence over the lives of the women in Heeramandi, using her strategic mind and ruthless nature to navigate the treacherous power dynamics within the bazaar.
Sonakshi Sinha as Fareedan
Date of Birth: June 28, 2025
Actor:Sonakshi Sinha, daughter ofBollywood legend Shatrughan Sinha, has become a prominent name in Indian cinema. She made her debut withDabangg, one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films, and has since proven her versatility with roles in critically acclaimed films likeLootera. Known for her ability to seamlessly transition between action-packed roles and more emotionally driven performances, Sinha has carved out a unique space for herself in the industry.
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Character:InHeeramandi, Sonakshi Sinha portrays Fareedan, a courtesan whose ambition and desire for power make her a key rival to Mallikajaan. Fareedan’s quest for revenge stems from past betrayals, and her calculated moves throughout the series lead to political maneuvering and manipulation within the bazaar. Her rivalry with Mallikajaan escalates as Fareedan aligns with external forces, furthering her own interests while destabilizing Mallikajaan’s control.
Aditi Rao Hydari as Bibbojaan
Date of Birth: June 20, 2025
Actor:Aditi Rao Hydari, known for her regal grace and stunning on-screen presence, comes from a royal background with roots in both the Hydari and Akbar family lineages. Hydari made her acting debut inPrajapathibut gained widespread recognition withYeh Saali Zindagi. Her breakthrough role inPadmaavatas Mehrunisa, the wife of Alauddin Khilji, further solidified her position as one of Bollywood’s most promising actresses.
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Character:InHeeramandi, Hydari portrays Bibbojaan, a courtesan who becomes involved in India’s independence movement, representing the complex intersection of personal relationships and national politics. Bibbojaan’s character struggles with her romantic involvement, which conflicts with her growing awareness of the political upheaval around her.
Richa Chadha as Lajjo
Date of Birth: July 07, 2025
Actor:Richa Chadha gained widespread acclaim with her breakout role inGangs of Wasseypur. Known for taking on unconventional roles, Chadha has built a reputation as one of India’s most talented actresses. Her notable performances in films likeMasaanandFukrey.highlight her ability to portray emotionally charged characters.
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Character:InHeeramandi, Richa Chadha portrays Lajjo, a courtesan grappling with addiction and the emotional scars of her past. Lajjo’s tragic backstory unfolds as she navigates the harsh realities of the bazaar, where survival depends on her ability to maintain relevance despite her personal struggles. As a woman burdened by loss and addiction, Lajjo’s attempts to break free from this cycle bring her into conflict with the power structures that dominate Heeramandi.
Sanjeeda Sheikh as Waheeda
Date of Birth: Jun 26, 2025
Actor:Sanjeeda Sheikh is a prominent Indian television actress best known for her roles in popular shows likeKyaa Hoga Nimmo KaandEk Hasina Thi.Her versatile acting skills have earned her praise for portraying both light-hearted and intense characters. Sheikh’s portrayal of Durga Thakur inEk Hasina Thiwas particularly lauded for its emotional depth and complexity. Additionally, she has demonstrated her talent in dance reality shows likeNach BaliyeandJhalak Dikhhla Jaa.
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Character:InHeeramandi, Sanjeeda Sheikh portrays Waheeda, a courtesan once renowned for her beauty, which had been her most valuable asset. However, as her physical and emotional scars accumulate, Waheeda’s former allure fades, leaving her grappling with a loss of identity and status. Throughout the series, Waheeda embarks on a journey of self-reclamation, seeking redemption and a new sense of purpose beyond her beauty.
Sharmin Segal as Alamzeb
Date of Birth: July 01, 2025
Actor:Sharmin Segal, the niece of renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, made her acting debut withMalaal. Despite her family ties, Segal quickly impressed audiences with her own talent and screen presence. Her performance inMalaalwas praised for its emotional depth, allowing her to step out of her uncle’s shadow and establish her own identity in the film industry.
Heeramandi(2024)
Alamzeb “Alam”
Character:InHeeramandi, Sharmin Segal portrays Alamzeb, the youngest courtesan in the bazaar who yearns to escape the life she was born into. Unlike the older courtesans, Alamzeb harbors dreams of becoming a poet, using her love of words and creativity as a means to break free from the limitations of her environment. Her character embodies youthful hope and ambition, contrasting the more hardened and experienced courtesans around her.
Heeramandi: The Diamond BazaarSupporting Cast & Characters
Taha Shah Badussha as Tajdar: Taha Shah Badussha plays Tajdar Baloch, a nobleman in love with Alamzeb. Badussha has appeared in films likeLuv Ka The EndandBaar Baar Dekhoand is known for his role as Murad in the web seriesTaj: Divided by Blood.
Farida Jalal as Qudsia: Farida Jalal portrays Qudsia Begum, the matriarch of the Baloch family. A veteran actress with over 200 films, she’s best known for her roles inKabhi Khushi Kabhie GhamandDilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.
Fardeen Khan as Wali: Fardeen Khan plays Wali Bin Zayed, Bibbojaan’s patron. Known for films likePrem AgganandNo Entry, Khan returns to acting after a 14-year break withHeeramandi.
Adhyayan Suman as Zoravar: Adhyayan Suman plays Zoravar Ali Khan, Mallikajaan’s son and Lajjo’s patron. Suman gained attention for his role inRaaz: The Mystery Continuesand continues to build his career with dramatic roles.
Shekhar Suman as Khan: Shekhar Suman plays Khan Bahadur Zulfikar Ahmed, a powerful patron inHeeramandi. Suman is known for his work inSaat Phero Ki Hera PherieandDr. Arora.
Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar
Cast
Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is an upcoming Indian period drama television series directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Set in pre-independence India, the series revolves around the courtesans of Heeramandi, a notorious red-light district in Lahore, exploring their lives, struggles, and relationships amidst the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle.
