As Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much-awaited web series ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’ releases on Netflix, cinephiles have already given it a thumbs-up. Set 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. 

‘Heeramandi’ marks the return of Manisha Koirala to Bhansali’s universe after they collaborated on ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’ in 1996. Manisha plays the role of Mallikajaan, queen of Shahi Mahal.  She governs over an aristocratic courtesan house. Despite her stature in the series and being a veteran, Manisha isn’t the highest-paid actress on the show.