Mandi

About

Mandi (English: Market Place) is a 1983 Hindi-language film. Based on a classic Urdu short story Aanandi by writer Ghulam Abbas, the film narrates the story of a brothel, situated in the heart of a city, an area that some politicians want for its prime locality. The film is a satirical comedy on politics and prostitution. Rukmini Bai, an aging brothel madame in Hyderabad, lives with her women, taking particular pride in Zeenat, a gifted classical singer whom she protects from prostitution, and Basanti, a talented dancer. When their new landlord, Mr. Gupta, invites them to perform at his daughter Malti’s engagement, Zeenat catches the attention of Sushil, the groom-to-be. The two fall in love. Meanwhile, City Councillor Shantidevi campaigns to remove Rukmini Bai’s brothel from town. The women are relocated to the outskirts, where the brothel soon becomes successful. Rukmini Bai discovers Zeenat and Sushil’s relationship and forbids it, revealing that Zeenat is the illegitimate daughter of Mr. Aggarwal, making her and Sushil half-siblings. Despite this, Sushil refuses to marry Malti and elopes with Zeenat. When Zeenat realizes the truth about their relationship, she leaves Sushil, breaking his heart. Devastated by Zeenat’s disappearance, Rukmini Bai is rejected by the women of the brothel and leaves with her loyal helper, Tungrus. While searching for water, they discover a Shiv Lingam and pray for a better future. Soon after, they encounter Phoolmani, a former brothel woman, giving Rukmini Bai hope and comfort. (source: wikipedia)

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