In August, as Sanjay Leela Bhansali completed 25 years in the film industry, he announced his web debut with his long-cherished project Heeramandi. Four months on, work on the Netflix series has begun. Where there is Bhansali, there is the promise of grandeur. It is learnt that an elaborate set is being erected at Film City in Goregaon, at the same location where the auteur shot his latest film, Gangubai Kathiawadi.

A source reveals, “The story that spans three generations is set in a district in Lahore of pre-Independence India. Over the past 15 days, the production design team has been supervising as the workers are recreating Lahore of the bygone era, building alleys and bazaars of the city. A major portion of the magnum opus will be shot on this set.”

If things go as per plan, the filmmaker will call action on the series in February. “Given the nature of the show, it demands a large crew. Bhansali sir will lead a cast and crew of about 300.”

Telling the story of love, betrayal and politics in the lives of the courtesans, Heeramandi will reportedly feature Manisha Koirala and Sonakshi Sinha.

mid-day reached out to Bhansali’s team, which remained unavailable for comment.