The illustrious and grandiose “Heeramandi” by SLB (Sanjay Leela Bhansali) showcases finely crafted characters, each intricately carved with a unique niche, making it a true masterpiece. Considering the Layers of each character going from being wicked to being really innocent and merely being at the mercy of the circumstances. The agony and emotional complexity portrayed are unparalleled, especially in the character of Manisha Koirala’s “Mallikajaan”, who has a grey side, who drags her own daughter into Heeramandi, and doesn’t allow her daughter to become a poetess. Yet, her motherly instincts emerge as she fights British policemen to protect her child. Her character is full of myriad complexities and plays the central role in the movie.

It is indeed a multilayered story under the backdrop of the pre-independence vibes of the rebels and the freedom fighters, and how each class felt the wrath of British rule under the foreign yolk in their own country. Be it Nawab or be it the courtesans of
Heera- mandi. There is an inner longing for freedom from the hardships of living courtesan life, being free from the perception of society, and not being considered for marriage by Nawabs, and freedom from British rule. Both things are happening parallelly in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s series. Every character has done the justice.

The beauty of the storyline is that each character has its own story and none is left behind, be the characters who have less screen space . Characters like Lajjo, Bibbojaan, and Fareedan bring commendable depth to the story, with even the morally ambiguous characters becoming relatable and likable.

The best part is that ironies are not neglected at all, but rather highlighted as being made part of the series in a very elaborate manner. A must-watch series with a strong storyline that is highly well-crafted.

About the author: The Soul India warmly welcomes Rashmi Chauhan, a talented writer. A PCS officer by profession, Rashmi brings with her a deep passion for reading, cinema, and social issues.