Sanjay Leela Bhansali, a renowned Bollywood director, has finally brought his first web series ‘Heeramandi’ to the screens. This highly anticipated 8-episode series has just been released on Netflix, creating a buzz among fans. ‘Heeramandi’ boasts an impressive cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Shekhar Suman, and Fardeen Khan. Interestingly, Bhansali had been nurturing the idea of ‘Heeramandi’ for a remarkable 18 years.
Real Courtesan of Heeramandi, Nargis Begum
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s series is receiving a great deal of appreciation. Today, we will share with you the captivating tale of a courtesan from Heeramandi, who was a renowned actress in Pakistan. Her name was Niggo, also known as Nargis Begum. Niggo had graced the silver screen with her talent in approximately 100 films. However, behind her radiant on-screen persona, her personal life was filled with immense pain. Do you know the life story of Niggo?, who was born in Heeramandi, the infamous red light district of Lahore. Read Ahead to know!
Who was Nargis Begum?
Niggo, also known as Nargis, was born in Heeramandi, the red light area of Lahore. Her mother, a former courtesan, used to organize gatherings and mujras to support the family. Following her mother’s example, Niggo learned traditional dance from a young age and became so proficient that she attracted huge crowds to her performances in Heeramandi. With the decline of the monarchy in the 1940s and the advent of cinema, women were hesitant to pursue careers in film. As a result, producers often turned to courtesans when casting a heroine for their movies.
Niggo became a Pakistani Actress?
It is believed that Niggo arranged a gathering in Heeramandi, drawing a large crowd as always. A Pakistani producer ventured out in search of a leading lady for his film and found himself amidst the bustling crowd at the brothel. Enchanted by the beauty, dance, and expressions of Nargis, a top-tier traditional dancer, the producer was so impressed that he offered her a role in his film without delay. Eager to leave Heeramandi, Nargis promptly accepted the offer to work in films.
Nargis’ Films
With her first film Ishrat in 1964, Nargis entered the Pakistani film industry. Her exceptional dancing skills paved the way for numerous film opportunities. She graced the screen in over 100 films, including Shahenshah-e-Jahangir (1968), Nayi Laila Nayi Majnu (1969), Andalib (1969), Love in the Jungle (1970), Afsana (1970), and Mohabbat (1972). Her presence in these films was primarily for her expertise in Mujra performances.
Fell in love with a Film Producer
In the 1970s, Niggo’s name reigned supreme in the world of Pakistani cinema. It was during this era that he landed a role in producer Khwaja Mazhar’s movie, Kasu. Little did he know that fate had something else in store for him on set – he fell head over heels in love with Khwaja Mazhar, and the two tied the knot. However, their union faced opposition from many due to Niggo’s background as a member of a family of courtesans. Despite the criticism, Khwaja Mazhar stood by his decision and made Niggo his beloved wife. Following their marriage, Niggo severed ties with Heeramandi, bringing an end to his family’s source of income. Additionally, Niggo’s career in films also took a backseat after getting married.
Family tried Breaking her Marriage
During the decline of the courtesan culture, a tradition emerged in the royal vicinity. It stated that if a man married a girl from the brothel in that area, he would be required to provide financial support to the girl’s family. Niggo’s family had lost their source of income and wished for Niggo to come back to Heeramandi. However, despite their insistence, Niggo firmly declined to return. As a result, her family began requesting a monetary compensation from her husband, following the established custom.
Niggo’s Husband killed Her
Despite all their efforts, Niggo’s family couldn’t find success. In a desperate attempt, Niggo’s mother pretended to be unwell and called Niggo to Heeramandi. As soon as she arrived home, the family gathered around to listen to her. Days went by and Niggo didn’t return home, causing Mazhar Khwaja to become worried. He eventually went to Heeramandi to bring Niggo back, but faced strong resistance from the family. Despite numerous attempts, Niggo refused to go back to her husband. It was around January 5th, 1972 when Mazhar Khwaja made another trip to Heeramandi to retrieve Niggo, but once again, she firmly declined to accompany him. Frustrated and filled with anger, Mazhar Khwaja pulled out a gun from his pocket and started shooting at Niggo. Multiple bullets were fired, tragically resulting in Niggo’s death along with the loss of two musicians and an uncle. Mazhar was ultimately sentenced to life imprisonment for Niggo’s murder.
– Vriti Parekh