Mujra
Mujra is a form/adaptation of Kathak dance originated by north Indian Tawaif during the Mughal era. it takes away more classical elements of the pure kathak dance to make it more appealing to the audience of that time, and adds sensuality fitting a courtesan's dance. Due to the lack of classical training in Bollywood dancers, most kathak-related dances in Bollywood films are in reality mujra. In certain modern settings and red-light districts, Mujra has become designated as any Indian exotic dance. Mujra has taken a new form in Pakistan by becoming less artistic and more seductive especially in Punjabi stage dramas.
- Real Meaning
It is true that in Pakistan the meaning of mujra has been changed but it really means that when a dancer, after her performance bends her/his head in front of her audience and waves her right hand twice to her forehead. This basically means doing mujra (to thank the audience for watching the performance and enjoying it).
Hira Mandi
Hira Mandi (literally "Diamond Market"), also known as Shahi Mohalla, is a red-light district in Lahore. The women here offer traditional and classical dances and were originally the center of the city's tawaif culture in the Mughal era. Today, it is a center of prostitution in Lahore under the veil of dances, such as mujra, a form of classical South-Asian exotic dance. While many Hijras also frequent the area and are involved in the dance culture.
Hira mandi is located in the northwest corner of the Walled City of Lahore, next to Roshnai Gate, Badshahi Masjid, Lahore Fort, and Hazuri Bagh. During the day the place is much like other Pakistani bazaars and is also known for its good food, khussa (shoes), and the shops for musical instruments.
Calling Hira Mandi a "Diamond Market" is incorrect, because diamonds have never been sold at Hira Mandi. According to Khushwant Singh, Hira Mandi was named after Hira Singh - the minister in charge of this district during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Prior to that, it was referred to as Shahi Mohalla ("Royal Neighborhood") due to its proximity to the royal quarters of the Moghals.
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