Songs of Paradise transforms the real-life struggles of Raj Begum, a Kashmiri singer, into a lyrical celebration of resilience and identity, writes Abhi Singhal
Hindi cinema has often produced films with predictable plots that nevertheless shine through their music and costume design. Songs of Paradise falls within that tradition, but it elevates the experience by weaving these elements into a heartfelt narrative. The film opens on a striking note: Zeba Akhtar (Saba Azad) singing against a black-and-white backdrop. The moment instantly pulls you in, setting the tone for a story that is as moving as it is musically rich.
At its heart, Songs of Paradise revolves around Zeba Akhtar, a young Kashmiri woman with dreams of becoming a singer. Discovered and mentored by her guru, Master Ji (Shishir Sharma), she dedicates herself to her art with discipline and passion. Her talent soon earns her victory in a Radio Kashmir competition, marking the beginning of a journey that leads to wider recognition and success. Loosely inspired by the life of Padma Shri awardee Raj Begum — the first female singer of Radio Kashmir and fondly remembered as the “Melody Queen of Kashmir” — the film pays homage to her legacy while dramatising her struggles and triumphs.
The soul of the film lies not only in its music but also in its delicate portrayal of Kashmiri culture. The backdrop of the valley, the gentle warmth of its people, and the essence of their traditions are beautifully captured. The songs themselves are more than musical interludes; they become a voice of defiance, resilience, and aspiration.
Saba Azad shoulders the film with a stellar performance. Her dialogue delivery, innocence, and emotional depth bring Zeba’s journey vividly to life. She embodies both the vulnerability and determination of a woman who dares to dream beyond the limitations imposed upon her. Soni Razdan, playing a pivotal supporting role, lends quiet strength and nuance to the story, complementing Saba’s performance with grace and gravitas.
Dialogues like “Agar sabki tankha barabar hogi to kaam karne main maza aayega”. Such dialogues add on to the essence of the film and make it more interesting and strong from the angle of the scenes.
The ensemble cast further enriches the film. Shishir Sharma as Master Ji delivers a commanding yet tender performance, anchoring Zeba’s artistic journey. Zain Khan Durrani as Azad Maqbool Shah, Taaruk Raina as Rumi, Sheeba Chaddha as Moji, and Chittaranjan Tripathy as Tiboo all bring authenticity and depth to their roles.
Importantly, the film does not shy away from addressing the gender biases of the time. Zeba’s battles — from the absence of basic facilities such as women’s washrooms, to constant underestimation of her talent, to familial pressures of marriage — highlight the hurdles faced by women pursuing unconventional paths.
Yet her perseverance and love for music keep her moving forward. Songs of Paradise is ultimately a story of courage, culture, and melody. It is a celebration of a voice that refused to be silenced, reminding audiences of the power of art to transcend barriers and leave behind a lasting legacy.
Ratings: 3.5/5
Watch Card (Show Information)
Screen Title: Songs of Paradise (Movie)
Platform Available: Amazon Prime Video
Running Time: 1 hour 46 minutes
Genre: Musical Drama
