Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is 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, and Heeramandi is no exception, blending intricate narratives with stunning set designs.

Each character in Heeramandi plays 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 in Indian cinema, with their performances contributing to the depth of the character-driven plot.

Manisha Koirala as Mallikajaan

Date of Birth: August 16, 1970

• Active since: 1989

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 in Saudagar and quickly established herself as one of the leading actresses of the 1990s with films like Bombay and Dil Se. A cancer survivor, Koirala has also symbolized resilience and strength in her personal life.

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Character: In Heeramandi, 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 2, 1987

• Active since: 2010

Actor: Sonakshi Sinha, daughter of Bollywood legend Shatrughan Sinha, has become a prominent name in Indian cinema. She made her debut with Dabangg, one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films, and has since proven her versatility with roles in critically acclaimed films like Lootera. 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: In Heeramandi, 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: October 28, 1986

• Active since: 2006

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 in Prajapathi but gained widespread recognition with Yeh Saali Zindagi. Her breakthrough role in Paavat as Mehrunisa, the wife of Alauddin Khilji, further solidified her position as one of Bollywood's most promising actresses.

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Character: In Heeramandi, 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: December 18, 1986

• Active since: 2008

Actor: Richa Chadha gained widespread acclaim with her breakout role in Gangs 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 like Masaan and Fukrey. highlight her ability to portray emotionally charged characters.

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Character: In Heeramandi, 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: December 20, 1984

• Active since: 2003

Actor: Sanjeeda Sheikh is a prominent Indian television actress best known for her roles in popular shows like Kyaa Hoga Nimmo Ka and Ek Hasina Thi. Her versatile acting skills have earned her praise for portraying both light-hearted and intense characters. Sheikh's portrayal of Durga Thakur in Ek Hasina Thi was particularly lauded for its emotional depth and complexity. Additionally, she has demonstrated her talent in dance reality shows like Nach Baliye and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa.

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Character: In Heeramandi, 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: March 28, 1995

• Active since: 2019

Actor: Sharmin Segal, the niece of renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, made her acting debut with Malaal. Despite her family ties, Segal quickly impressed audiences with her own talent and screen presence. Her performance in Malaal was praised for its emotional depth, allowing her to step out of her uncle’s shadow and establish her own identity in the film industry.

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Character: In Heeramandi, 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 Bazaar ing Cast & Characters

Taha Shah Badussha as Tajdar: Taha Shah Badussha plays Tajdar Baloch, a nobleman in love with Alamzeb. Badussha has appeared in films like Luv Ka The End and Baar Baar Dekho and is known for his role as Murad in the web series Taj: 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 in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.

Fardeen Khan as Wali: Fardeen Khan plays Wali Bin Zayed, Bibbojaan’s patron. Known for films like Prem Aggan and No Entry, Khan returns to acting after a 14-year break with Heeramandi.

Adhyayan Suman as Zoravar: Adhyayan Suman plays Zoravar Ali Khan, Mallikajaan’s son and Lajjo’s patron. Suman gained attention for his role in Raaz: The Mystery Continues and continues to build his career with dramatic roles.

Shekhar Suman as Khan: Shekhar Suman plays Khan Bahadur Zulfikar Ahmed, a powerful patron in Heeramandi. Suman is known for his work in Saat Phero Ki Hera Pherie and Dr. Arora.