Prime video to stream ‘Songs of Paradise’ globally from August 29

Srinagar, Aug 21: Prime Video has announced the global premiere of Songs of Paradise, a stirring musical drama inspired by the extraordinary journey of Padma Shri awardee Raj Begum, Kashmir’s first prominent playback singer. The film will stream exclusively on the platform in India and over 200 countries and territories from August 29.Presented by Excel Entertainment and produced by Apple Tree Pictures Production along with Renzu Films Production, the film is directed by Kashmiri filmmaker Danish Renzu. Producers Shafat Qazi and Renzu bring together a stellar cast led by Saba Azad and Soni Razdan, who portray the protagonist Noor Begum across two timelines. The ensemble also features Zain Khan Durrani, Sheeba Chaddha, Taaruk Raina and Lillete Dubey in pivotal roles.Rooted in Kashmir’s cultural legacy, the drama blends music and defiance to narrate the story of a woman who defied convention to claim her space in a male-dominated industry, inspiring a movement for women’s voices in the region. Written by Renzu, Niranjan Iyengar and Sunayana Kachroo, the film unfolds against the backdrop of the valley’s breathtaking landscapes, weaving together themes of resilience, identity and courage.“At Prime Video, we believe in the power of storytelling that can entertain, inspire, and foster a deeper connection with audiences,” said Manish Menghani, Director & Head of Content Licensing, Prime Video India. “Songs of Paradise offers a fresh and emotional perspective rooted in Kashmir’s rich musical heritage and brings to life a remarkable lesser-known story of resilience, anchored by powerful performances. We are proud to showcase this moving tale to audiences across the world through our partnership with Excel Entertainment.”Ritesh Sidhwani of Excel Entertainment called the film a “timeless tale of a champion and torchbearer for artists from the culturally rich land of Kashmir, layered with emotion, heritage, and hope.” He said, “The film beautifully unfolds the chapters from the life of Padma Shri awardee Noor Begum, whose voice not only made her the pride of the region but also inspired generations to come. We are glad to be associated with Danish Renzu in telling this unique story, along with Prime Video, which enables us to take it to audiences across the globe.”Renzu said that for him, the project is deeply personal. “Songs of Paradise is a heartfelt tribute to Raj Begum, the first female voice at Radio Kashmir,” he said. “The film tells an emotionally stirring story inspired by her music, legacy and grit during a time when societal restrictions bound women within both emotional and cultural confines. It is the story of a woman who dared to dream when dreaming itself was an unspoken taboo. Thanks to Prime Video, audiences across the world will now be able to witness her story, one that has long deserved a place of pride.”