It was a star-studded evening as some of Indian cinema’s finest gathered for the special screening of the highly anticipated musical drama, Songs of Paradise. Held ahead of the film’s release on Amazon Prime Video on August 29, 2025, the screening saw the presence of legendary actors like Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Soni Razdan, Lillete Dubey, and a new generation of talents including Saba Azad, Imaad Shah, Vivaan Shah, Mihir Ahuja, and Mahira Sharma.
Directed by Danish Renzu, Songs of Paradise is set against the evocative backdrop of Kashmir, weaving together music, dreams, and resilience. The film is produced by a powerhouse team—Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Shafat Qazi, and Renzu himself. It features a screenplay by Danish Renzu and Sunayana Kachroo, with dialogues by Niranjan Iyengar. The atmosphere at the screening was charged with emotion and pride, as the film's message of artistic perseverance struck a chord with many in attendance.
The film follows the story of a Kashmiri woman with dreams of becoming a singer, inspired by the life and legacy of Raj Begum, the revered "Melody Queen of Kashmir." Played by Saba Azad, with strong performances from Soni Razdan and Zain Khan Durrani, the narrative is both personal and universal. It dives into the lives of Kashmiri artists—their struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs, all underscored by a rich, soul-stirring musical score and visuals that celebrate Kashmir’s culture and history.
The screening was a moment of celebration not just for the film’s cast and crew, but for the cinematic community at large. With performances from Taaruk Raina, Sheeba Chaddha, Shishir Sharma, Lalit Parimoo, and Lillete Dubey, Songs of Paradise boasts a cast that bridges generations, creating a vibrant blend of experience and fresh energy. For many attendees, the screening felt like a homecoming—a return to storytelling that resonates deeply and lingers long after the credits roll.
With rave reactions pouring in from those who witnessed it early, Songs of Paradise is poised to be more than just a film. It’s a tribute to the unsung voices of Kashmir, and a powerful reminder of how art, even in the toughest conditions, finds a way to thrive and inspire.