Heeramandi Tradition Or Addiction? Ever Wondered Why Courtesans Used To Consume Paan?

As Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Heeramandi" continues to trend on Netflix, people are growing increasingly curious about the real-life stories of Lahore's red light area and the courtesans who lived there. Have you ever wondered why courtesans used to eat so much paan (betel leaves)? A recent discovery sheds light on this ancient tradition. "Heeramandi," set in the Mughal era, has fascinated viewers with its portrayal of courtesans' lives and customs. Among the many cultural practices depicted, the significance of betel leaf consumption stands out, sparking interest and intrigue.

Ever Wondered Why Courtesans Used To Consume Paan?

Scene From Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi/X

In the Courtesan group, eating betel leaves is more than just a habit. It holds deep meaning in their tradition. For a long time, betel leaves have been important in many Asian cultures.

Also Read: Did You Know Madhubala And Madhuri Dixit Did The Gajagamini Walk Before Aditi Rao Hydari In Heeramandi?

Here Are Some Of The Theories Behind Why Courtesans Used To Eat Paan:

Pucture Of Paan In making/Indiatimes

• In Heeramandi, consuming betel leaves was more than just chewing; it was a way to socially connect and honour their cultural heritage.
• One theory suggests that Courtesans chewed betel leaves to achieve a red colour on their lips, adding to their allure.
• Apart from its symbolic meaning, betel leaf consumption is believed to have health benefits like aiding digestion, freshening breath, and improving alertness.
• In a community where appearance and charm are crucial, betel leaf consumption may have been embraced not only for its cultural significance but also for its potential health advantages.
• Courtesans used to control their hunger by chewing paan to maintain their figures

Real-Life Picture From Heeramandi Shared Online/X

In the Netflix series, people get to see a special look at the details of courtesan culture. Every small action and tradition means a lot. When they show courtesans eating betel leaves, it shows how much effort the series puts into being real and accurate historically. It helps reveal customs that were once unknown.

Also read: Will There Be Heeramandi Season 2 Anytime Soon? Here's What Sanjay Leela Bhansali Has To Say!

As Heeramandi stays popular, it helps bring back old traditions. Showing people eating betel leaves in the series has made people curious about this old custom again. They're talking about it and trying to learn more about where it came from and why it matters. In a time when our culture is changing fast, Heeramandi reminds us how important it is to remember and keep our traditions alive.

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