Akbar Khan opens up on global journey of Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story

Filmmaker Akbar Khan speaks about the international journey of his historical epic ‘Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story’, as the film moves from a highly praised private screening in Kuala Lumpur to an upcoming special showcase in Jakarta on December 13, 2025. With diplomats, cultural leaders and global dignitaries embracing the film’s message of immortal love and shared heritage, Khan reflects on the vision, strategy and significance behind this worldwide rollout leading to its grand commercial releases in 2026. Here is Akbar Khan, the man himself, in an exclusive interview with QNA India.

Akbar Khan shares a cordial exchange with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar bin Ibrahim, during the Kuala Lumpur screening of ‘Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story’.

Your film ‘Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story’ has begun its international journey with exclusive screenings. How does it feel to see this vision reach global audiences?

Akbar Khan: It is profoundly gratifying. This film has been a labour of love for many years, and to witness it resonate beyond India fills me with joy. The Kuala Lumpur screening on August 11, 2025 was a truly special moment. Hosting it in honour of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar bin Ibrahim, and presenting it before high commissioners, ambassadors and cultural leaders was a humbling experience. The overwhelming appreciation we received reaffirmed that the story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal speaks to hearts everywhere.

A striking poster unveils the scale, emotion and visual splendour of Akbar Khan’s historical masterpiece.

The next private screening is being hosted by the Ambassador of India to Indonesia on December 13, 2025. What does this event signify for you?

Akbar Khan: The initiative by His Excellency Sandeep Chakravorty is remarkable. His belief that the Taj Mahal embodies immortal love, harmony and peace is at the core of this film. I am honoured that he is hosting this screening in Jakarta for dignitaries, ministers, ambassadors and cultural influencers. Indonesia has deep cultural synergy with India, and this screening celebrates that shared heritage. It marks an important step in the film’s international rollout and enriches the cultural bridge between our nations.

Akbar Khan stands with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar bin Ibrahim, as they seem to discuss the cultural significance of the epic.

The Kuala Lumpur screening created a wave of excitement. How important are these events for your global strategy?

Akbar Khan: These events are essential. Our aim is to introduce the film country by country, allowing each region to experience its emotional and historical essence intimately. The appreciation in Malaysia was extraordinary and it set the tone for the film’s journey. The Jakarta event continues this momentum, building anticipation ahead of the commercial releases. When cultural leaders and diplomats endorse a film at this level, it amplifies its message and deepens the connection with audiences.

The filmmaker with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar bin Ibrahim, and other dignitaries, as they begin to watch the private screening of ‘Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story’, in Kuala Lumpur. The film’s lead actor Zulfi Syed, who plays the young Shah Jahan also joins them.

The film is set to have its world gala premiere on February 6, 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, followed by its Indonesian theatrical release on February 13, 2026. How have you planned this timing?

Akbar Khan: We wanted the release schedule to align with the film’s spirit. Since the Taj Mahal represents eternal love, launching in Indonesia during Valentine’s Week feels beautifully symbolic. PT Omega Film, our distribution partner, is one of Indonesia’s most prestigious companies with an exceptional legacy of releasing global blockbusters. Their support ensures that the film will reach audiences across the nation with the prominence it deserves.

Akbar Khan reflects on the film’s global journey during a quiet moment. On his right is a poster of his next mega dream project ‘Genghis Khan’.

As the director, producer and writer, what inspired you to bring this monumental tale to the screen?

Akbar Khan: The story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal is one of the greatest love stories known to mankind. It is timeless. I wanted to capture not just the historical grandeur but the emotion, loyalty, sacrifice and depth of their bond. The Taj Mahal is a universal symbol of devotion and human connection. Through this film, I wished to give audiences a cinematic experience that reflects the beauty, grace and sorrow that shaped its creation.

The audience watches ‘Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story’ the film with abated breath in Kuala Lumpur.

What do you hope global audiences will carry with them after watching the film?

Akbar Khan: I hope they carry a sense of wonder. A sense of connection to a legacy that belongs to the world. The Taj Mahal is not just an Indian monument; it is part of our shared human heritage. If audiences leave the cinema feeling touched by its emotions and enriched by its history, then I believe the film will have fulfilled its purpose.