Why ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ Shines on the Stage: A Flawless Adaptation

Feroz Abbas Khan’s magnificent musical adaptation of K Asif’s iconic film, ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, has made a triumphant return to the stage after a three-year hiatus. The production, produced by Shapoorji Pallonji Group, faithfully captures the essence of the original film while adding its own visual and musical flair.

The play’s stunning visuals, including David Lander’s lighting design and three-dimensional backdrops, transport the audience into the opulent world of Mughal India. Manish Malhotra’s costumes further enhance the grandeur of the production. The original Urdu dialogue, composed by Kamal Amrohi, Wajahat Mirza, Ehsan Rizvi, and Amanullah Khan, remains intact, preserving the poetic beauty of the film. The timeless score by Naushad and the profound lyrics by Shakeel Badayuni are also retained, accompanied by the enchanting voices of Neha Sargam and Priyanka Barve, who alternate in the role of Anarkali.

The revival of ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ comes at a time when Islamophobia is rampant and there are concerted efforts to rewrite the contributions of the Mughals in Indian history. The film’s narrative, based on the legend of Anarkali, a courtesan who captures the heart of Mughal emperor Akbar’s son Salim, challenges these attempts to erase the Mughal legacy. The story explores themes of love, defiance, and rebellion, punctuated by fiery dialogue and captivating song-and-dance sequences.

Feroz Abbas Khan, a veteran of the theatre, saw the musical adaptation as an opportunity to return to the film’s theatrical roots. He recognized the inherent theatricality of the original film, which drew inspiration from the Parsi theatre tradition. The screenplay, with its dramatic structure and flawless writing, lent itself perfectly to the stage. Khan aimed to stay true to the essence of the film while adding his own imaginative touch.

The enduring appeal of ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ lies in its universal themes. The film gave a voice to the marginalized and oppressed, resonating with a nation that had recently gained independence from colonial rule. It explored themes of love, secularism, gender equality, and the power of the masses. The characters of Anarkali, Salim, Akbar, and Jodha represented different facets of society, creating a narrative that was relatable and thought-provoking.

The play retains the purity of the original Urdu dialogue, refusing to dilute its essence. English translations are provided for non-Urdu speakers, ensuring that the audience can fully appreciate the poetic beauty of the language. The magic of the sound of the dialogue adds an extra layer of depth and impact to the production.

‘Mughal-e-Azam’ is not just a recreation of a classic film; it is a flawless adaptation that captures the spirit and essence of the original while adding its own unique elements. With its stunning visuals, captivating performances, and timeless themes, the musical continues to captivate audiences and remind them of the enduring power of storytelling.

Gursharan Kohli