Songs of Paradise premiered on Prime Video on 29th August. (Image Credit: x.com/@PrimeVideoIN)
Prime Video's Songs of Paradise, which was released on Friday, has been winning over audiences with its emotional storytelling and brilliant performances. Based on the life of Kashmiri playback legend Raj Begum, the musical drama goes across generations, following the plight and victory of a talented woman singer from the Valley. Lying at the heart of the story are textured characters enacted by a robust ensemble cast.
Saba Azad portrays Zeba Akhtar, the younger Noor Begum, whose voice turns out to be her tool of defiance against traditional Kashmiri society during the 1950s. Azad captures the innocence, silent rebellion, and resilience of a woman who defies norms to pursue her passion for music.
Soni Razdan takes on the part of the older Noor Begum, and she performs with complete restraint and grace. With her expressive presence, Razdan brings on-screen a woman who has fought both personal and societal battles and yet retained the dignity of her craft.
Zain Khan Durrani portrays Azaad, or Muqbool Shah, a reformist poet who is both confidant and inspiration for Zeba. His restrained and sensitive acting adds depth to Noor Begum's character.
Sheeba Chaddha plays the role of Hameeda, the conservative mother of Noor Begum, who is suspicious of her daughter's ambitions to sing. Her role reflects the deeply rooted social restraints of the time.
Lillete Dubey brings warmth to the story as Khala, Noor Begum's aunt. Her character provides comfort and emotional balance to the story and acts as a counterweight to Hameeda's strictness.
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Taaruk Raina brings Rumi, a young researcher of music, to life, whose dialogues with elder Noor Begum revive her memories and untangle the pages of her remarkable journey.
Shishir Sharma lends gravitas in the role of the Ustad, Noor Begum's music teacher, whose mentorship sets the stage for her career.
The movie also sees Lalit Parimoo, Bashir Lone as Zeba's father, Mir Sarwar, Armaan Khera, and a few more, all adding to the authenticity of the Kashmiri setting of the story.
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