Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Web Series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’s poster
Historically situated within the Walled City of Lahore, Heeramandi became the backdrop for Bhansali’s opulent homage to classical dance, poetry, and art.
Heeramandi’s grand set resembled a miniature township, a vision that filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali quietly nurtured for over 18 years. The elaborate set served as his interpretation of what Heera Mandi, renowned for its arts and culture in Lahore, might have looked like. Historically situated within the Walled City of Lahore, Heeramandi became the backdrop for Bhansali’s opulent homage to classical dance, poetry, and art.
And now, Minahil Ali Wattoo, a creator took to Instagram to share a video of Androon Lahore, once a part of Heeramandi. Through her video, she shows how it looks like now. She shares how Androon Lahore, once part of Heeramandi, holds a rich history of architectural splendor and cultural significance. Although Heeramandi no longer exists, its legacy lives on as a vibrant tourist destination characterized by shops and restaurants. This transformation occurred after Heeramandi was demolished, with prostitution being outlawed in Pakistan under the Offence of Zina (Enforcement of Hudood) Ordinance, VII of 1979.
The street was redeveloped and opened to the public in 2012, reimagined as a tourist hotspot offering Lahori cuisine and stunning views of the Badshahi Mosque. The Walled City Lahore Authority (WCLA) assumed responsibility for the area, collaborating with the private sector to revitalize it. The architectural foundation of this street dates back to the Mughal Empire and British Rule, reflecting the diverse historical influences that shaped Lahore during that era.
During the Mughal period, Heeramandi symbolized the essence of Lahore. Today, the area bustles during the day like any traditional Pakistani bazaar, renowned for its delectable cuisine, a wide variety of Khussa (traditional Mughal footwear), and specialty shops selling musical instruments and dance-related items. This fusion of history, culture, and commerce continues to define Androon Lahore, preserving its heritage while embracing its role as a modern hub of activity within the city.
If you haven’t watched the movie yet, this is your cue to go experience the grandeur of Heeramandi as seen through Bhansali’s eyes.
