Actress Soni Razdan, who essays the role of legendary Kashmiri singer Raj Begum in the recently released streaming film Songs of Paradise, has said that there was no major departure from what her younger counterpart Saba Azad had done for the same role in the film. ‘Songs of Paradise’ Trailer Out: Saba Azad, Soni Razdan Shine in Film Honouring Raj Begum’s Legacy (Watch Video).

Songs of Paradise is inspired by the life of Padma Shri awardee, Raj Begum, and the lead character is portrayed by Saba Azad and Soni Razdan across two time periods.

Watch ‘Songs of Paradise’ Trailer:

The veteran actress recently spoke with IANS during the promotional campaign of the film, and deconstructed her process. She said that she only worked on the nuances of the part as the majority of the tone of the character was set by Saba Azad, who plays the younger version of Raj Begum in the film.

Soni told 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 mentioned, “She wasn't a novice and she wasn't a newbie and she was a little more imperious and a little more arrogant, I would say. Written by life, so she had a different feeling”.

Songs of Paradise is an ode to Raj Begum’s inspiring music and journey that is complemented by the soulful composition of Abhay Sopori and vocals of Masrat Un Nissa that enlivens the rich musical legacy and the captivating backdrop of the valley. ‘Songs of Paradise’: Alia Bhatt ‘Mama’ Soni Razdan’s ‘Biggest Fan’, Says ‘Watching You on Screen Is My Greatest Delight’.

Presented by Excel Entertainment and produced by Apple Tree Pictures Production and Renzu Films Production, Songs of Paradise is available to stream on Prime Video.

 

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 03, 2025 12:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).