'Mallikajaan' Abha Ranta Exclusive on playing the iconic role in Heeramandi

Based out of Shimla in northern India, mountain girl Abha Ranta recently stunned us all with her short yet electric performance as a young Mallikajaan in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi. The Netflix show is based on the lives of courtesans of Heeramandi who played a crucial role in the freedom struggle movement of India while balancing the Nawabs of the time and the British empire which had been successful in colonising the subcontinent.

An important story in the pages of Indian history, Heeramandi tells a tale of power, sex and scandal from the eyes of a few Heeramandi courtesans whose fame and influence in Lahore and neighbouring areas knew no bounds. Abha Ranta, who played a young Manisha Koirala in the show, had a brief screen time but she knew she had to make it impactful. Calling it a “milestone” in her career, Abha spoke about her Heeramandi role and stepping into the shoes of Manisha Koirala’s character which is central to the whole plot.

Abha Ranta's Mallikajaan

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“I don't think that my character was small, it is a link to binding the story, and with its dialogues, the onscreen presence was amped up. So it was truly an incredibly special and memorable experience for me. Being a part of such a prestigious project helmed by a visionary director like Bhansali sir is truly a milestone in my career,” said Abha on playing a young Mallikajaan. Notably, Abha's Mallikajaansets the stage for revenge in the whole show. (No spoilers here!)

On whether she knew that she would be opening the magnanimous show for Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Abha said, “I was not initially but when I came to know about the same, I was at the top of the sky, and it surely did wonders for me, as people who watched the show recognised me. I also believe that the introductory scene of a project is crucial, as it is never forgotten by the audiences.” Read WION's review of Heeramandi here

Abha watched Manisha Koirala to get her mannerisms correct. “I dwelled a lot on my character’s psyche, even on set I used to think about the emotions my character is going through,” revealed Abha on getting into the skin of Mallikajaan, who is played by her initially and then the character is taken over by veteran actress Manisha Koirala.

Abha Ranta on working with Manisha Koirala

Abha added, “Collaborating with such a seasoned actor is a fantastic opportunity to grow and refine your craft. It's moments like these that truly enhance the acting journey and contribute to creating a memorable and authentic performance.”

Heeramandi continues to enjoy a Top Trending spot in India's ranks. On whether that has changed some things for her, Abha replied, “The positive response and adulation that I have been getting from the audience is such a rewarding feeling. Being acknowledged for your work is like a dream come true for any actor, and I am experiencing that in abundance with my role in Heeramandi.”

She revealed, “In terms of work offers, I am in talks for a few projects, as soon as something gets confirmed, the audience will get to know.”

Heeramandi Actor Jason Shah Interview:

Heeramandi is currently streaming on Netflix. It stars Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha and Sanjeeda Shaikh in pivotal roles.