New Delhi: There is a real story behind the story of the iconic film ‘Pakeezah’ – the love story of the director Kamal Amrohi and the film’s heroine, the legendary Meena Kumar.
Their love story will soon be presented in the form of a film. Titled Kamal Aur Meena, the timeless love story will be directed by Siddharth P Malhotra, known for his work in ‘Maharaj’ and ‘Hichki’.
The film will chronicle their 20-year journey, culminating with the masterpiece, Pakeezah. Produced by Bilal Amrohi, Saregama, and Rohandeep Singh, this film’s shoot will start in 2025. AR Rahman will compose the music and the casting details are kept under wraps.
Sanjay Dutt shared the announcement video of Kamal Aur Meena. “Dear Saachi and Bilal, all the best for your new venture. May it be a successful one! Love always, from Sanjay Mamu. It’s a must-watch (sic),” he wrote.
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Actor-producer Bilal Amrohi, grandson of Kamal Amrohi, shared, “It is our great honour to bring to the screen the untold love story and the immense struggle behind making of the film, Pakeezah of my grandparents, Kamal Amrohi Sahaab, a man known for his cinematic brilliance, and the legendary Meena Kumari ji. Their story is a beautiful yet tragic chapter in the legacy of Indian cinema.”
“With access to over 500 handwritten letters exchanged between my grandparents Kamal Sahaab and Meenaji as well as personal journals detailing their life together thanks to my “Aphua”, Rukhsaar Amrohi who has selflessly preserved them and my father Tajdar Amrohi who has lived so closely with them both on and off film shoots, I would like to show the world audience the real heart-wrenching story which no else knows,” he was quoted as saying by India Today.
According to director Siddharth P Malhotra, “It’s a profound privilege to direct this incredible true story, though the responsibility is immense. Their relationship was one of deep love and artistic collaboration, spanning over 20 years—from their first meeting when she was just 18 and he was 34, from the creation to shoot and release, The legacy of Pakeezah, Their story gives me an opportunity to create a cinematic world where love, passion, emotion and music plays a huge part. I’m glad to be allowed to get a stellar team of Bhavani Iyer and Kausar Munir along with Irshad Kamil and the maestro himself AR Rahman sir to score the music of the film. Kamal sir and Meena ji have long been idols of mine, not only for their unmatched contributions to cinema but also for the indomitable spirit they brought to their craft. I’m beyond excited to bring their story to life on the silver screen.”