Prime Video Debuts 'Songs of Paradise' Musical Drama

Mumbai, Aug 21 (PTI) Prime Video is set to debut "Songs of Paradise," a musical drama inspired by the incredible life of renowned Kashmiri singer Raj Begum, on August 29. The announcement was made by the OTT platform on Thursday.

Presented by Excel Entertainment and produced by Apple Tree Pictures Production along with Renzu Films Production, the film is helmed by Los Angeles-based director Danish Renzu.

The movie features talented actors Saba Azad and Soni Razdan in the role of Noor Begum across two time periods. The ensemble cast also includes Zain Khan Durrani, Sheeba Chaddha, Taaruk Raina, and Lillete Dubey in significant roles.

Written by Renzu in collaboration with Niranjan Iyengar and Sunayana Kachroo, the story is set against the stunning landscape of Kashmir. It is a heartwarming tale that intertwines music, defiance, and the inspiring journey of Kashmir's first prominent playback singer.

Raj Begum's remarkable journey began as a wedding singer, eventually becoming one of Kashmir's most powerful female voices. Encouraged by her father, she joined Radio Kashmir in 1954. Her powerful, melodious voice earned her a place as a prominent figure at the station until her retirement in 1986.

Raj Begum, celebrated for her emotive singing and cultural expression, was seen as a symbol of freedom for Kashmiri women.

She was honored with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 2002, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2013, and the State Award by the Jammu and Kashmir government in 2009. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 89.

Director Danish Renzu, known for his projects "Half Widow" and "The Illegal," sees the film as a tribute to Begum.

"The film narrates an emotionally stirring story inspired by her music, legacy, and tenacity amidst a time of societal restrictions on women. It portrays a woman who dared to dream, even when dreaming was considered taboo."

Renzu praised the performances, stating, "Saba Azad and Soni Razdan beautifully embody the protagonist across two distinct phases of life, with outstanding contributions from a stellar ensemble cast."

Ritesh Sidhwani of Excel Entertainment described the film as a "timeless tale" from Kashmir, a land rich in cultural heritage.

“The story vividly brings to life chapters from the existence of Padma Shri awardee Noor Begum, whose voice not only became a source of pride for the region but also an inspiration for future generations,” he added.

Manish Menghani, Director and Head of Content Licensing at Prime Video India, emphasized the platform’s dedication to inspirational and entertaining storytelling.

“'Songs of Paradise' offers a fresh and emotional perspective rooted in Kashmir’s rich musical legacy, spotlighting a lesser-known true story of resilience and independence,” Menghani said.

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