Loved Heeramandi? Explore these 8 Indian films celebrating Courtesan culture

Gangubai Kathiawadi brings to life the fierce story of a young woman forced into Mumbai’s underworld, transformed into a powerful brothel matriarch. Alia Bhatt’s commanding performance anchors the film, while Bhansali’s visual panache sets quite the stage in 1960s Bombay.

Kalank is a period drama directed by Abhishek Varman, set in pre-independence India during the partition era. With a powerhouse cast, including Varun Dhawan, Alia Bhatt, Sanjay Dutt, and Madhuri Dixit the film weaves together complex relationships and betrayals in the fictional town of Husnabad.

Begum Jaan delves into the lives of a brothel madam and her women, defending their sanctuary amid the brutal partition of India. Vidya Balan’s portrayal of the indomitable Begum Jaan anchors the film, while Srijit Mukherji’s direction intensifies the emotional weight of their struggle. With a stellar ensemble, including Naseeruddin Shah and Ila Arun, the film’s raw portrayal of communal violence.

Bajirao Mastani recounts the passionate relationship between Maratha Peshwa Bajirao I and his wife Mastani amidst 18th-century political turmoil. Ranveer Singh’s portrayal of Bajirao contrasts with Deepika Padukone’s fierce Mastani, both defying societal expectations. Bhansali’s scale and visuals do wonders in capturing the Maratha Empire on screen.

Devdas tells the tragic love story of Devdas and Paro, set in early 20th-century Bengal. Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of Devdas captures his internal conflict, while Aishwarya Rai’s Paro embodies unwavering devotion. Bhansali’s opulent visuals, paired with Ismail Darbar’s haunting score, heighten the film’s emotional intensity. Devdas’s descent into despair, compounded by his relationship with Chandramukhi, solidifies the film’s place as a landmark in Indian cinema.

Chitralekha explores the moral and spiritual conflict between a courtesan and a monk, set against a backdrop of desire and enlightenment. Mehtab’s portrayal of Chitralekha challenges societal norms, while Ashok Kumar’s Vishwamitra grapples with temptation and higher truths. Kidar Sharma’s direction blends romance and philosophy, offering a nuanced exploration of human nature.

Mughal-E-Azam tells the story of Prince Salim’s forbidden love for the courtesan Anarkali amidst the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Dilip Kumar’s portrayal of Salim and Madhubala’s Anarkali capture the tension between duty and desire. K. Asif’s direction and the film’s lavish production design create an unforgettable visual experience. The iconic Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya remains a cultural milestone in Indian music.