Mumbai, Nov 10: `The Making of Taj Mahal`, a book on Akbar Khan`s magnum opus `Taj Mahal - An Eternal Love Story`, was released here.
The star cast of the film -- Zulfikar Sayed and Sonnya Jehan -- was present at the function at the Oxford book store along with producer Irshad Alam, Director Akbar Khan and music director Naushad.
The book has been authored by Suresh Kohli and published by Om Books International Kohli said the book will take the reader through the journey of the making of this Magnum Opus.
The film releases on November 18. The lavish production, releasing with 800 prints worldwide, will also witness grand premieres across India, the UK and the US. The film is being distributed in India by Mukta Arts Ltd.
Speaking on the occasion yesterday, Akbar Khan said the film enriches the ethos of Mughal history. `Taj Mahal - An Eternal Love Story` brings to life the legend of Shah Jehan and the love of his life Mumtaz, the film delves deep into the history of the Mughal empire at the time, and recreates the political turmoil, the family feuds and the passion of an era that few of the general public have any clear knowledge about. However, it is ultimately a love story that shows the passion and devotion of one man for his wife and the ultimate tribute ..... The creation of a monument of such immense beauty that it has been acknowledged as one of the seven wonders of the world... The Taj Mahal,`` he added.
The multi-talented cast, bringing the story to life, include Kabir Bedi as emperor Shah Jehan, Zulfikar Syed as Prince Khurram (young Shah Jehan), Sonya Jehan as Mumtaz, Manisha Koirala as Jehan Ara, Arbaz Khan as Aurangazeb, Pooja Batra as Noor Jehan and Arbaz Ali as Jehangir.
Anna Singh has designed the regal looks of the star cast. Fatima Meer and Akbar Khan have written the story and screenplay, dialogues are by gulrez syed, late Mohafiz Hyder and Rajeev Mirza, cinematography by R M Rao, editing by Sanjay Varma, Art Director Chandravardhan more, action by Shyam Kaushal. Choreographer Saroj Khan and Jay Borade have choreographed the dances.
The book was launched by Bank of Baroda Chairman and Managing Director Dr A K Khandelwal. The bank has financed the film.
Speaking on the occasion, he said filmmaking was a classic example of excellence in management where stakes and investment of talent was very high. ``It is high time we recognised this aspect. The film industry was reaching places and this film was all about reliving history and the youth,`` he added.
Bureau Report
