With it being exactly a month till SLB’s magnum opus mini series airs on Netflix, we wanted to get down some predictions of what we think will be included. From the posters released, we know the character names for the six main cast members:

Manisha Koirala: Mallikajaan

Sonakshi Sinha: Fareedan

Aditi Rao Hydari: Bibbojaan

Richa Chadha: Lajjo

Sanjeeda Sheikh: Waheeda

Sharmin Segal: Alamzeb

1. Moon Song

We think this mujra performed by Alamzeb will feature some moon iconography, perhaps even in the lyrics.

2. Flashbacks

Fareedan’s longer hair in this scene makes us think there will be some flashbacks to explain the enmity between her and Manisha’s characters.

3. Harlots

Speaking of enmity, we think there may be some similarities between Heeramandi and the British series Harlots (2017) which revolved around rival brothels.

4. Mother-Daughter

Could Mallikajaan and Alamzeb be mother and daughter? The regality of both names, plus their interaction in Sakal Ban, makes it seem like a possibility. Also, note the similarity of the kurta embroidery on Mallikajaan and Alamzeb’s outfits above, and on the hem of Mallikajaan’s lehenga and Alamzeb’s gharara.

We also think there’s some significance to Mallikajaan flicking Alamzeb’s nath or nose ring in Sakal Ban – traditionally, courtesans had their noses pierced as part of receiving their first client, so we think Sakal Ban comes at a pivotal moment for Alamzeb!

5. Revenge

The scar on Waheeda’s cheek makes us think her storyline will involve a healthy dose of revenge, perhaps as Mallikjaan’s second in command?

6. Bag’o’Mystery

It’s clear this sequinned bag held by Lajjo is a plot point, and from the way she flings it Mallikajaan’s feet in Sakal Ban, we’re wondering if she has a role to play in securing Alamzeb’s first client.

7. Freedom Fighters

Given the setting of the show is around the time of the partition, we think Bibbojaan will be involved in some of the political upheaval, and will bring Alamzeb into the fold as well.

8. Wedding Blues

From the flower sehra (headress) Lajjo is wearing in this scene, it looks like she’s involved in some kind of wedding, but from the expression on her face, and another scene where it looks like she’s wearing the same jewellery and is covered in blood, it doesn’t end well…

9. Special Guests?

A while ago, there were articles doing the rounds that SLB had approached some big name actresses to do songs in the mini series. Although there’s already a packed main cast, with eight episodes to play with it feels like it would be a missed opportunity to not bring in some fan favourites for special numbers.