About the Show
Experience the grandeur of Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical – presented in North American by Cinema on Stage, an entertainment company dedicated to bringing world-class productions to audiences across the continent.
This Broadway-style production brings to life the timeless story of Prince Salim and courtesan Anarkali, set against the backdrop of Mughal India.
With over 550 stunning costumes, intricate sets and live performances of Indian classical singing and Kathak dance, this is the most expensive theatre production in Indian history.
Produced by Shapoorji Pallonji and directed by Feroz Abbas Khan, this larger-than-life production (with English sub-titles) has already captivated audiences at 25 venues across India, USA, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, UAE, Oman and Qatar
Don’t miss your chance to witness the first Indian Broadway-style musical, where romance and royalty meet in a grand spectacle of music, dance, and drama.
Why you should attend ?
“Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical” is a captivating theatrical experience that brings to life the opulence, romance, and drama of one of Bollywood’s most iconic films. Here are a few reasons why you should attend:
- Spectacular Production: The musical boasts lavish sets, extravagant costumes, and stunning visual effects that transport the audience to the grandeur of the Indian heritage.
- Iconic Story: Based on the timeless love story of Prince Salim and the courtesan Anarkali, Mughal-e-Azam explores themes of love, sacrifice and societal norms that resonate with audiences of all ages.
- Legendary Music: Featuring unforgettable melodies composed by Late Naushad Ali, the musical showcases classic songs like “Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya” and “Teri Mehfil Mein Qismat.” The music adds nuances and emotions to the narrative, enhancing the overall theatrical experience.
- Talented Cast: The production features a talented cast of actors, live singers, and kathak artistes who bring the iconic characters to life with their stellar performances and spectacular choreography, capturing the essence of the original film’s beloved characters.
- Cultural Heritage: Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage and cinematic legacy, paying homage to one of the greatest films in Indian cinema history while also offering a fresh interpretation for contemporary audiences.
- Emotional Impact: From heart-wrenching moments of forbidden love to exhilarating dance sequences, the musical offers a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you spellbound and deeply moved.
- Unforgettable Experience: Whether you are a fan of the original film or new to the story, Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical promises an unforgettable experience of acting, live signing and choreography that combines the magic of Bollywood with the grandeur of a Broadway style Musical.
- Sub titles in English : All performances of Mughal-e-Azam have sub-titles in English and accordingly the play has been enjoyed by non-Indian audiences across the world.
Overall, “Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical” is a must-see production that promises to transport you into a world of romance, grandeur and timeless beauty – making it a cultural experience not to be missed.
What is the story of the play ?
“Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical” is based on the iconic 1960 Bollywood film “Mughal-e-Azam,” which itself was inspired by the historical love story of Prince Salim (who later became Emperor Jahangir) and Anarkali, a court dancer.
The story is set during the Mughal era (1600s) in India and revolves around the forbidden love between Prince Salim (son of Emperor Akbar) and Anarkali, a beautiful and talented court dancer. Despite belonging to different social classes and facing opposition from the emperor himself, Salim and Anarkali fall deeply in love. The opposition from the emperor to a series of dramatic events that include political conflicts, war but not without elegant dance sequences. The climax leads to a tragic end for the lovers but with a twist that leaves a question in everyone’s mind.
Throughout the story, themes of love, sacrifice, jealously along with clashes between personal desires and societal expectations are explored. The live singing and the beautiful choreography exemplify the experience to new heights. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the magnificent Mughal court, showcasing the grandeur, splendor and cultural richness of the era.
Despite the challenges and obstacles, they face, Salim and Anarkali’s love for each other remains unwavering, making their story one of the most enduring and beloved romances in Indian cinema and theater.
What is so special about the film Mughal-e-Azam ?
Besides being the most expensive and the all-time biggest grosser of Indian cinema (inflation adjusted), this 1960 film created new benchmark in Indian cinema in all aspects of film making – Screenplay, Production Design, Direction, Music, Dialogue, Performances, Cinematography et al.
Such has been the impact of this film that for more than thirty years, the film experienced house full shows every time it was re-released in cinema halls. In 2004, the colorised version with seven track music ran for 25 weeks in cinema halls. And the musical (2016) also proved blockbusters – even when the audience comprised of a completely new generation.
Besides the above, the legendary love story of Salim and Anarkali has been enjoyed by audiences as a radio play, as a silent film and also as talkie film by various other directors.
