The Oldest Red-Light Areas in the World, Heeramandi & Many More…

by Sneha Kundu

Everyone might first saw a red light district in a movie. Adorned with lights, women in these places were shown in a stereotypical attire with conventional expressions and accents. However, after films like ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ and ‘Begum Jaan’, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Netflix is set to open the doors to his another, star-studded series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, in 2024.“Step into the world of Heeramandi… where courtesans were once queens” Sanjay Leela Bhansali, once mentioned about about why he often includes characters like sex workers and scenes set in places like brothels and red light areas in his movies. He explained that it’s because of his upbringing and what he saw when he was a child. He mentioned having a soft spot for Sex Workers, changed this narrative that people were carrying in my mind, to a large extent.

Moving ahead, this article is more about these areas with great history all around the world. These areas often have a long history and unique stories behind them. Let’s talk about seven of the oldest Red-Light districts in the world and their backgrounds.

1. Heera Mandi, Pakistan: During the Mughal era, Heera Mandi was a prominent center for sex work. Women from Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and later from the Indian subcontinent were brought here. Originally a grain market, Heera Mandi transforms into a red-light district at night. It’s also known for its cultural significance and has inspired movies like “Heeramandi.”

2. De Wallen, Netherlands: De Wallen in Amsterdam is one of the largest and oldest red-light districts globally. It was established around a bridge connecting the city’s islands in 1270, attracting a diverse population, including sex workers who catered to sailors. It’s famous for its red-lit windows, as seen in the movie “Queen.”

3. Kamathipura, Mumbai, India: This area in Mumbai has been a hub for sex work since the 1880s. Originally designated for European Sex Workers by colonial authorities, it later became home to Indian sex workers after India gained independence. Today, it’s one of Asia’s oldest and second-largest red-light districts.

4. Patpong Market, Thailand: Bangkok’s oldest red-light district, Patpong Market, was once a banana plantation. In 1946, it was turned into shophouses, eventually becoming a renowned area for adult entertainment. It’s featured in movies like “Hangover 2” and transforms into a bustling market after 7 PM.

5. Pigalle, Paris: Pigalle is known for its sex stores, theaters, and adult shows. Established in the 1880s, it gained popularity with the advent of cabarets and the Moulin Rouge. By the 1930s, over two thousand women worked in adult establishments here.

6. Vila Mimosa, Brazil: Brazil’s largest red-light district, Vila Mimosa, was founded during World War I by Slavic women facing hardship. It’s now a popular destination, attracting thousands of visitors daily and generating significant revenue.

7. Garstin Bastion Road, India: Formerly known as GB Road, this area in New Delhi was consolidated into one red-light district during British rule. Today, it’s one of the most famous red-light zones globally, with over 100 houses catering to sex work.

While these red-light districts have historical significance, it’s important to recognize the challenges faced by sex workers, including sex trafficking. However, it’s unfair to stigmatize these workers, as their lives and livelihoods are important. Having open conversations about these issues can help us better understand and support the people involved in this industry.