The Taj Story Team — Paresh Rawal, Zakir Hussain & Tushar Amrish Share Untold Truths

Even before its release, The Taj Story has been making headlines — primarily due to its controversial poster. Many on social media allege that the film is attempting to hurt religious sentiments. However, the film’s makers and actors offer a completely different perspective. The film is written and directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, featuring Paresh Rawal as Vishnu Das and Zakir Hussain as the antagonist. Recently, Mayapuri journalist Shilpa Nalamwar met with the two actors and the director to discuss the film. Here’s what they had to say —

The film’s poster has stirred quite a controversy. People say it hurts religious sentiments. What would you like to say about that?

Tushar Amrish: The poster is being called controversial, but it’s actually designed as a fusion concept. It depicts Indo-Saracenic architecture — which is one historical theory. Another theory suggests that there once stood a temple at that site. We’ve portrayed that ongoing debate, not drawn any conclusion. Showing Shivaji emerging from a tomb isn’t controversial — we didn’t show him coming out of a mosque. This debate has been around for 60–70 years, and we’ve simply presented it through cinema. So I would just say — watch the film first, then form your opinion.

It’s often said that cinema mirrors society, yet when films show certain truths, they face backlash. Why is that?

Paresh Rawal: This isn’t merely the truth of society — it’s the truth of history. Our film doesn’t oppose any religion. We’re simply asking — who wrote history, how was it presented, and what might have been left out? We’re questioning those who have misrepresented history.

How did the idea of making a film on this subject come to you?

Tushar Amrish: The idea actually came from our producer, C.A. Suresh Jha. He once told me, “There’s so much controversy surrounding the Taj Mahal. Do some research on it.” I spent years researching — exploring multiple narratives and historical perspectives. Based on that research, I wrote the story and narrated it to Paresh Ji. He studied the script and the research material in depth and said that such subjects must be brought to the screen.

How strong did you find the script and the courtroom debate?

Zakir Hussain: The strength of the film lies in its courtroom debate. It’s essentially a courtroom drama where the entire story builds up to that moment. The arguments are powerful and thought-provoking. Personally, I joined the film because I got the opportunity to work with Paresh Ji. 

The trailer highlights issues about the education system and how history has been portrayed from a ‘Mughal perspective.’ Does the film challenge that narrative?

Paresh Rawal: Yes, the film explores how history has been presented and how that has affected our identity and self-respect. It also points out who’s responsible for this distortion. We haven’t targeted any religion or individual — our only aim is to portray the truth as authentically as possible.

What was your experience working on this film and with the team?

Zakir Hussain: It was a delightful experience. Every day on set, I would distribute sweets and tell everyone to stay happy. The atmosphere was very positive. There was no controversy during shooting — everything was done with good spirit.

The film also references ‘Sanatan Dharma.’ Could you tell us more about that?

Paresh Rawal: In the film, Sanatan isn’t shown as a religion but as a philosophy. As my dialogue says — “Sanatan flows in the blood of India. It’s not a religion; it’s a way of thinking.” It’s a liberal, inclusive philosophy that welcomes everyone — and that’s the true essence of our Indian identity.

Zakir Hussain: I am a Muslim, but when I go on stage, I first touch the stage with respect. My religion doesn’t tell me to do that, but my theatre religion does. That’s the difference between faith and duty. If someone truly believes, they can feel God anywhere.

Will audiences gain clarity on the long-debated mysteries surrounding the Taj Mahal?

Paresh Rawal: Absolutely. The film delves into everything — from the 22 locked doors to the intricacies of the monument’s architecture and craftsmanship. Many untold stories will come to light through this film.

Finally, what would you like to say to your audience?

Paresh Rawal, Zakir Hussain & Tushar Amrish Goel: We just want to say — watch the film first, then form your opinion. The Taj Story released in theatres on October 31st. Go watch it and show your love.

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