“Love that is scared easily is not love, it’s lust. It’s a sin.”
Anarkali, The Great Mughal
Set during the 16th-century India which was under the Mughal rule during that time, Mughal-e-Azam or The Great Mughal is a forbidden love story between the crown prince, Salim, and a courtesan dancer, Anarkali.
What did I like?
Mughal-e-Azam is considered as one of the greatest movies of Bollywood cinema. It stars some of the most remarkable Bollywood actors of all times including Prithviraj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar and the beautiful Madhubala.
Fun Fact: Madhubala was also known as the ‘Marilyn Monroe of India’. She was even offered a role in Hollywood by Frank Capra, but Madhubala’s strict father denied the offer.
The film is known for its hardworking cast, the amazing direction, the extravagant dresses, the emotional dialogues and the tragic plot. However, perhaps it is best known for its stunning songs and dance performances.
The song Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya or Why Should I Be Afraid To Love? has set insanely high standards for Bollywood cinema. The song is shot in a Sheesh Mahal or Palace of Mirrors and it was almost impossible to shoot it without the cameras being seen. This song is one of the many wonders that this film created.
Another extraordinary musical performance is Teri Mehfil Mein or In The Gathering Of Your Court. This is a qawwali competition between Anarkali and Bahar who are both fighting for Salim’s love.
Conclusion?
This three-hour long movie may be a bit heavy in the first watch, but Madhubala’s great performances and the tragic love story will definitely keep you engrossed.
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