Did Soni Razdan Depart from Saba Azad's Portrayal in ‘Songs of Paradise’?

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Did Soni Razdan Depart from Saba Azad's Portrayal in ‘Songs of Paradise’?

Synopsis

In a recent interview, Soni Razdan reflected on her role as Raj Begum in ‘Songs of Paradise’. She emphasized that her portrayal closely mirrors that of Saba Azad, focusing on character nuances rather than major changes. This film celebrates the legendary singer’s impactful music and life journey.

Key Takeaways

  • Soni Razdan emphasizes subtlety in her portrayal of Raj Begum.
  • The film honors the legacy of an influential Kashmiri singer.
  • Collaboration between actresses enriches the narrative.
  • Available for streaming on Prime Video.
  • Highlights the importance of cultural heritage in storytelling.

Mumbai, Sep 1 (NationPress) Actress Soni Razdan, who takes on the role of the iconic Kashmiri singer Raj Begum in the newly released streaming film ‘Songs of Paradise’, has stated that there was no significant divergence from the portrayal of her younger counterpart Saba Azad in the same role.

Songs of Paradise’ draws inspiration from the life of Padma Shri awardee Raj Begum, with the lead character depicted by Saba Azad and Soni Razdan across two different time frames.

The seasoned actress recently engaged with IANS during the film's promotional activities, revealing her creative process. She mentioned that she focused primarily on the subtleties of the character, as the essence of the role was largely established by Saba Azad, who portrays the younger version of Raj Begum.

Soni Razdan expressed to IANS, “There was no major departure. These were the small little nuances. I don't even remember what it was now because it was so long. The character over a period of time became more polished because she is interacting with the Radio Kashmir director. She's got a lot of exposure. Saba's part was like just the beginning part. Over here, the character that I play is already a legend, and has experience by her side.”

She further elaborated, “She wasn't a novice and she wasn't a newbie; she was a little more imperious and a tad more arrogant, I would argue. Written by life, so she had a different feeling.”

Songs of Paradise’ serves as a tribute to Raj Begum’s remarkable music and journey, enhanced by the soulful composition of Abhay Sopori and the vocals of Masrat Un Nissa, which breathe life into the rich musical heritage and the enchanting backdrop of the valley.

Produced by Excel Entertainment, Apple Tree Pictures Production, and Renzu Films Production, ‘Songs of Paradise’ is now available for streaming on Prime Video.

Point of View

We approach the narrative surrounding ‘Songs of Paradise’ with an unbiased lens. The film not only highlights the artistic talents of Soni Razdan and Saba Azad but also honors the legacy of Raj Begum, enriching the cultural tapestry of our nation.
NationPress
01/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the film ‘Songs of Paradise’ about?
‘Songs of Paradise’ is inspired by the life of the legendary Kashmiri singer Raj Begum, showcasing her music and journey through the portrayals of Soni Razdan and Saba Azad across two different time periods.
Who plays the lead role in the film?
Soni Razdan plays the role of the older Raj Begum, while Saba Azad portrays her younger self in ‘Songs of Paradise’.
Where can I watch ‘Songs of Paradise’?
‘Songs of Paradise’ is available for streaming on Prime Video.
What is the significance of Raj Begum in Indian music?
Raj Begum is a celebrated figure in Kashmiri music, known for her contributions and influence on the musical landscape, making her a cultural icon.
What themes does ‘Songs of Paradise’ explore?
The film explores themes of legacy, artistry, and the journey of a woman who became a legend in her field, emphasizing the importance of music in cultural identity.