Gangubai Kathiawadi is a 2021 Indian Hindi-language biographical drama film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The film stars Alia Bhatt in the titular role of Gangubai Kothewali, a character from the book "Mumbai Masti" by Hussain Zaidi.
The film, adapted from a chapter in Hussain Zaidi’s book Mafia Queens of Mumbai , tells the story of Ganga Harjivandas (Alia Bhatt). Sold into prostitution by her lover, Ramil (played by Seema Pahwa), at the age of 16, Ganga’s innocence is shattered. Refusing to be a victim, she rises through the ranks to become ‘Gangubai Kothewali’—the formidable, benevolent madam of Kamathipura.
Every frame is a painting. Bhansali transforms the gritty, impoverished lanes of Kamathipura into a neon-drenched, gothic palace. The production design—from the chandeliers in the brothel to the dusty mohallas—is immersive. The cinematography (by Sudeep Chatterjee) uses deep shadows and vibrant reds to mirror Gangu’s internal rage and passion.