Before Gangubai Kathiawadi, Bollywood Movies That Focused On Lives Of Sex Workers

Gangubai Kathiawadi is based on the life of Gangubai Harjivandas -- a sex worker and madam of a brothel in Mumbais Kamathipura area in the 1960s. There have been many films in the past that have gracefully captured the lives of sex workers.

Srijit Mujhrji directorial Begum Jaan is a Hindi drama film starring Vidya Balan. In the movie, the actress plays the role of a sex worker who owns a brothel. The story is set during the India-Pakistan partition and highlights the plight of sex workers during those chaotic circumstances.

Kalank is a Hindi film that traces back the story from the British era. The story narrates the incident of the time when blacksmiths and sex workers stood together to overcome the British rule.

Umrao Jaan is made with two actresses, one with Rekha and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The movie depicted the life of Lucknow's Tawaif culture.

Shyam Benegal’s Mandi is based on a Pakistani writer's piece which showcased the sad reality of society and how they looked at sex workers.

The movie Chameli stars Kareena Kapoor in the lead role. The movie showcases how a sex worker helps a man suffering from depression.