Here's what connects Kiran Rao's 'Laapataa Ladies' to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi'

Pratibha Ranta Pic/Instagram

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's web series ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' has finally premiered on Netflix. While fans are in awe of the actors and the show's aesthetics, we found a connection that is unmissable. For those who have watched Kiran Rao's directorial ‘Laapataa Ladies' are aware of its actress Pratibha Ranta, who showed her acting prowess in the film. Interestingly she is also a part of ‘Heeramandi'.

Pratibha plays the role of Shama, Sanjeeda Shaikh aka Waheeda's daughter. Waheeda is the younger sister of Manisha Koirala, who plays Mallikajaan. That's not all! Pratibha's sister Abha Ranta, a constant in television commercials, essayed the role of young Manisha in the series. The opening scene itself shows her heartbroken after her newborn son is sold for a better life away from the brothel.

The two sisters have indeed made it big with the Bhansali project.

While hailing from a family with no connection to Bollywood, it was not easy for Pratibha to make them understand her passion and interest. However, she managed to do it.

She told ANI, "I am from Shimla and did my schooling there only. I told my family about my interest in acting. They were reluctant initially to allow me as no one in my family is from a filmy background. They were not aware of the entertainment industry. So, they were sceptical about it. Then I took an admission to a college in Mumbai and informed them about it. I told them that, 'Now, I am going'."

"I reached Mumbai and gave auditions. And started getting opportunities. At that time only, I got a call for 'Laapataa Ladies' and there when I read the script, I just connected to it and found creative satisfaction. Now, my family is happy with the work I am doing and I just want to be the voice of Himachal Pradesh so that other girls can also explore more opportunities like this," she added.

'Heeramandi' is against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s, the eight-part series is an epic saga of love, power, revenge, and freedom. Through the stories of courtesans and their patrons, the series delves deep into the cultural reality of Heeramandi, offering a compelling narrative.

(With inputs from ANI)