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{{Infobox television | {{Infobox television | ||
| image = Taj_Divided_By_Blood_Official_Poster.jpg | | image = Taj_Divided_By_Blood_Official_Poster.jpg | ||
| caption = | | caption = | ||
| genre = [[Drama]]<br/>[[Historical fiction]] | | genre = [[Drama]]<br/>[[Historical fiction]] | ||
| based_on = | | based_on = | ||
| runtime = | | runtime = | ||
| creator = Abhimanyu Singh | | creator = Abhimanyu Singh | ||
| Line 19: | Line 19: | ||
* [[Aashim Gulati]] | * [[Aashim Gulati]] | ||
* [[Taaha Shah]] | * [[Taaha Shah]] | ||
}} | }} | ||
| writer = ''Dialogues''<br>Ajay Singh | | writer = ''Dialogues''<br>Ajay Singh | ||
| story = Christopher Butera | | story = Christopher Butera, [[Anand Neelakantan]] | ||
| screenplay = William Borthwick<br>Simon Fantauzzo | | screenplay = William Borthwick<br>Simon Fantauzzo | ||
| theme_music_composer = | | theme_music_composer = | ||
| composer = ''Music'' <br>[[Ian Arber]] | | composer = ''Music'' <br>[[Ian Arber]] | ||
| country = India | | country = India | ||
| language = {{ubl|Hindi|Urdu}} | | language = {{ubl|Hindi|Urdu}} | ||
| location = | | location = | ||
| cinematography = Simon Temple <br>Tejal Shetye | | cinematography = Simon Temple <br>Tejal Shetye | ||
| editor = Irfan Ishak<br>Ben King<br>Ruchi Barar | | editor = Irfan Ishak<br>Ben King<br>Ruchi Barar | ||
| network = [[ZEE5]] | | network = [[ZEE5]] | ||
| released = | | released = | ||
| first_aired = {{Start date|df=y|2023|3|3}} | | first_aired = {{Start date|df=y|2023|3|3}} | ||
| last_aired = | | last_aired = {{End date|df=y|2023|6|2}} | ||
| company = [[Contiloe Pictures]] | | company = [[Contiloe Pictures]] | ||
| executive_producer = | | executive_producer = | ||
| producer = Abhimanyu Singh <br>Roopali Kadyan | | producer = Abhimanyu Singh <br>Roopali Kadyan | ||
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| related = | | related = | ||
| image_alt = | | image_alt = | ||
| channel = | | channel = | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''''Taj: Divided by Blood''''' is an Indian [[period drama]] [[streaming television]] series produced by [[Contiloe Pictures]] for [[ZEE5]].<ref>{{Citation|title=ZEE5 announces a new original series Taj – Divided by Blood|url= https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/zee5-announces-a-new-original-series-taj-divided-by-blood-562026 |access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=ZEE5 announces a new original series, 'Taj – Divided by Blood'|url=https://www.adgully.com/zee5-announces-a-new-original-series-taj-divided-by-blood-128514.html|website=Adgully |date=14 February 2023 |access-date=February | '''''Taj: Divided by Blood''''' is an Indian [[period drama]] [[streaming television]] series produced by [[Contiloe Pictures]] for [[ZEE5]].<ref>{{Citation|title=ZEE5 announces a new original series Taj – Divided by Blood|date= 14 February 2023 |url= https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/zee5-announces-a-new-original-series-taj-divided-by-blood-562026 |access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=ZEE5 announces a new original series, 'Taj – Divided by Blood'|url=https://www.adgully.com/zee5-announces-a-new-original-series-taj-divided-by-blood-128514.html|website=Adgully |date=14 February 2023 |access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214060647/https://www.adgully.com/zee5-announces-a-new-original-series-taj-divided-by-blood-128514.html |archive-date=2023-02-14 |url-status=live}}</ref> The series stars [[Dharmendra]], [[Naseeruddin Shah]], [[Rahul Bose]], [[Aditi Rao Hydari]], [[Zarina Wahab]], [[Sandhya Mridul]], [[Aashim Gulati]] and [[Taaha Shah]] in primary roles.<ref>{{cite news | title=Dharmendra, Naseeruddin Shah to star in new ZEE5 series 'Taj – Divided by Blood'|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/dharmendra-naseeruddin-shah-to-star-in-new-zee5-series-taj-divided-by-blood/article66507929.ece|website=The Hindu |date=14 February 2023 |access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230215071400/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/dharmendra-naseeruddin-shah-to-star-in-new-zee5-series-taj-divided-by-blood/article66507929.ece |archive-date=2023-02-15 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Taj- Divided by Blood: Dharmendra as Chisti while Naseeruddin Shah turns King Akbar for new ZEE5 series|url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/ott/taj-divided-by-blood-dharmendra-as-chisti-while-naseeruddin-shah-turns-king-akbar-for-new-zee5-series-2023-02-15-847341|website=India TV|date=15 February 2023 |access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217010715/https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/ott/taj-divided-by-blood-dharmendra-as-chisti-while-naseeruddin-shah-turns-king-akbar-for-new-zee5-series-2023-02-15-847341 |archive-date=2023-02-17 |url-status=live}}</ref> It is produced by Abhimanyu Singh, Roopali Singh and William Borthwick. | ||
The first season premiered on ZEE5 on March | The first season premiered on ZEE5 on 3 March 2023. The second season, titled Taj: Reign of Revenge, premiered on 12 May 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Taj: Divided by Blood gets a season 2: Here's when Taj: Reign of Revenge will premiere on ZEE5|url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/taj-divided-by-blood-gets-a-season-2-heres-when-taj-reign-of-revenge-will-premiere-on-zee5/87ecf10acb263|access-date=2023-05-01 |website=www.OTTPlay.com |language=English}}</ref> | ||
== Premise == | == Premise == | ||
=== Taj: Divided by Blood === | === Taj: Divided by Blood === | ||
Set in the 16th century, the story follows [[Akbar]] and the war of succession amongst his 3 sons: Salim, Murad, and Daniyal. It is a twisted tale of the struggle for power filled with dangerous politics, poetic beauty, torrid romances, cold treachery, and bloodshed.<ref>{{cite web | title= Taj: Divided by Blood" to Premiere on ZEE5 on March | Set in the 16th century, the story follows [[Akbar]] and the war of succession amongst his 3 sons: Salim, Murad, and Daniyal. It is a twisted tale of the struggle for power filled with dangerous politics, poetic beauty, torrid romances, cold treachery, and bloodshed.<ref>{{cite web|title=Taj: Divided by Blood" to Premiere on ZEE5 on 3 March 2023|url=https://www.rwmedia.tech/2023/02/taj-divided-by-blood-to-premiere-on.html|website=rw Media|access-date=25 February 2023|archive-date=25 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230225155558/https://www.rwmedia.tech/2023/02/taj-divided-by-blood-to-premiere-on.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The show unravels multiple layers of each character in the Mughal dynasty. The series dramatizes the rise and fall of the various generations of the [[Mughal Empire]], showcasing both the beauty as well as the brutality of the dynasty.<ref>{{cite web | title= Naseeruddin Shah, Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari to star in ZEE5 series Taj – Divided by Blood|url= https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/naseeruddin-shah-dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydari-star-zee5-series-taj-divided-blood/|website=India TV|date= 15 February 2023|access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217010959/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/naseeruddin-shah-dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydari-star-zee5-series-taj-divided-blood/ |archive-date=2023-02-17 |url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
=== Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge === | === Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge === | ||
The season charters | The season charters Salim's journey from being the exiled enemy of the Mughal empire to seeking blood and revenge in an attempt to become the next Emperor. On this dark, dangerous, and destructive path, he is surrounded by enemies from all sides with few allies like his new love interest - Meherunnissa. | ||
== Cast== | == Cast== | ||
* [[Dharmendra]] as [[Salim | * [[Dharmendra]] as [[Salim Chishti|Sheikh Salim Chisti]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Service |first=Statesman News |date=2023-02-18 |title=Taj – Divided by Blood trailer out |url=https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/taj-divided-by-blood-trailer-out-1503155618.html |access-date=2023-02-18 |website=The Statesman |language=en-US}}</ref> | ||
* [[Naseeruddin Shah]] as [[Akbar]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Taj – Divided By Blood: Naseeruddin Shah All Set To Play Emperor Akbar In New Web Series! |date=14 February 2023 |url=https://www.koimoi.com/television/taj-divided-by-blood-naseeruddin-shah-all-set-to-play-emperor-akbar-in-new-web-series/|access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref> | * [[Naseeruddin Shah]] as [[Akbar]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Taj – Divided By Blood: Naseeruddin Shah All Set To Play Emperor Akbar In New Web Series! |date=14 February 2023 |url=https://www.koimoi.com/television/taj-divided-by-blood-naseeruddin-shah-all-set-to-play-emperor-akbar-in-new-web-series/|access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref> | ||
* [[Aashim Gulati]] as [[Jahangir|Salim]] | ** Aaryama Salim as young Akbar | ||
* [[Aashim Gulati]] as [[Jahangir|Salim/Jahangir]] | |||
* [[Aditi Rao Hydari]] as [[Anarkali]] | * [[Aditi Rao Hydari]] as [[Anarkali]] | ||
* [[Sauraseni Maitra]] as [[Nur Jahan|Mehrunnisa]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Sauraseni Maitra speaks about blending into two entertainment industries |url=https://www.indulgexpress.com/entertainment/cinema/2023/apr/14/sauraseni-maitra-speaks-about-blending-into-two-entertainment-industries-48296.html|access-date=1 May 2023}}</ref> | * [[Sauraseni Maitra]] as [[Nur Jahan|Mehrunnisa/Nur Jahan]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Sauraseni Maitra speaks about blending into two entertainment industries |date=13 April 2023 |url=https://www.indulgexpress.com/entertainment/cinema/2023/apr/14/sauraseni-maitra-speaks-about-blending-into-two-entertainment-industries-48296.html|access-date=1 May 2023}}</ref> | ||
** Sauyma Setia as young [[Nur Jahan|Mehrunnisa]] | |||
* [[Rahul Bose]] as [[Mirza Muhammad Hakim]] | * [[Rahul Bose]] as [[Mirza Muhammad Hakim]] | ||
* [[Zarina Wahab]] as [[Salima Sultan Begum]] | * [[Zarina Wahab]] as [[Salima Sultan Begum]] | ||
* [[Sandhya Mridul]] as [[Mariam-uz-Zamani|Jodha Bai]] | * [[Sandhya Mridul]] as [[Mariam-uz-Zamani|Jodha Bai]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Taha Shah Badussha]] as [[Murad Mirza (son of Akbar)|Murad]] | ||
* Shubham Kumar Mehra as [[Daniyal Mirza]] | * Shubham Kumar Mehra as [[Daniyal Mirza]] | ||
* Pankaj Saraswat as [[Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak]] | * Pankaj Saraswat as [[Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak]] | ||
*Digambar | *Digambar Prasad as [[Man Singh I]] | ||
* Mitansh Lulla as [[Shah Jahan|Khurram]] (season-2) | * Mitansh Lulla as [[Shah Jahan|Khurram/Shah Jahan]] (season-2) | ||
* Jiansh Agarwal as [[Khusrau Mirza]] (season-2) | * Jiansh Agarwal as [[Khusrau Mirza]] (season-2) | ||
* Suhani Juneja as | * Suhani Juneja as [[Mumtaz Mahal|Arjumand Banu Begum/Mumtaz Mahal]] | ||
* Rajat | * Rajat Kaul as [[Abu'l-Hasan Asaf Khan]] (season-2) | ||
* Akshay | * Akshay Agarwal as [[Amar Singh I]] (season-2) | ||
* Rouhallah Quazim as [[Sher Afgan Khan]] (season-2) | * Rouhallah Quazim as [[Sher Afgan Khan]] (season-2) | ||
* Arman | * Arman Khera as [[Mahabat Khan]] (season-2) | ||
* Anushka Luhar as [[Shah Begum (wife of Jahangir)|Man Bai]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Anushka Luhar to star in ZEE5 digital series 'Taj – Divided by Blood' |url= https://beautypageants.indiatimes.com/miss-india/anushka-luhar-to-star-in-zee5-digital-series-taj-divided-by-blood/articleshow/97915787.cms|access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref> | * Anushka Luhar as [[Shah Begum (wife of Jahangir)|Man Bai/Sha Begum]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Anushka Luhar to star in ZEE5 digital series 'Taj – Divided by Blood' |newspaper= Femina Miss India|url= https://beautypageants.indiatimes.com/miss-india/anushka-luhar-to-star-in-zee5-digital-series-taj-divided-by-blood/articleshow/97915787.cms|access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref> | ||
* [[Mir Sarwar]] as [[Bairam Khan]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Taj: Divided by Blood Web Series (2023) {{!}} Release Date, Review, Cast, Trailer, Watch Online at Zee5 |url=https://www.gadgets360.com/entertainment/taj-divided-by-blood-web-series-115942 |access-date=2023-03-03 |website=Gadgets 360 |language=en}}</ref> | * [[Mir Sarwar]] as [[Bairam Khan]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Taj: Divided by Blood Web Series (2023) {{!}} Release Date, Review, Cast, Trailer, Watch Online at Zee5 |url=https://www.gadgets360.com/entertainment/taj-divided-by-blood-web-series-115942 |access-date=2023-03-03 |website=Gadgets 360 |language=en}}</ref> | ||
* Tanvi Negi as [[Jagat Gosain|Jagat Gossain]] | * Tanvi Negi as [[Jagat Gosain|Jagat Gossain]] | ||
* [https://g.co/kgs/vqiaWo4 ActorsFirdaush] as [[Mirza Muhammad Hakim|Hakim Hasan]] (season-2) | |||
* Janam Raj as [[Sahib Jamal]] | * Janam Raj as [[Sahib Jamal]] | ||
* [[Subodh Bhave]] as [[Birbal]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Subodh Bhave: मराठमोळा अभिनेता सुबोध भावे बनणार 'बिरबल'; मुघलांवर आधारित 'या' सीरिजमध्ये झळकणार! |url= https://marathi.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/subodh-bhave-will-be-seen-as-birbal-in-web-show-taj-divided-by-blood-141676458035822.html|access-date=17 February 2023 |language=mr}}</ref> | * [[Subodh Bhave]] as [[Birbal]]<ref>{{Citation|title= Subodh Bhave: मराठमोळा अभिनेता सुबोध भावे बनणार 'बिरबल'; मुघलांवर आधारित 'या' सीरिजमध्ये झळकणार! |url= https://marathi.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/subodh-bhave-will-be-seen-as-birbal-in-web-show-taj-divided-by-blood-141676458035822.html|access-date=17 February 2023 |language=mr}}</ref> | ||
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* [[Deepraj Rana]] as [[Maharana Pratap]] | * [[Deepraj Rana]] as [[Maharana Pratap]] | ||
* Zachary Coffin as Father Monserrate | * Zachary Coffin as Father Monserrate | ||
* Saurabh Selwal as young [[Abu'l-Hasan Asaf Khan|Asaf Khan]] | * Saurabh Selwal as young [[Abu'l-Hasan Asaf Khan|Asaf Khan]] | ||
== Series | == Series overview == | ||
{{Series overview | {{Series overview | ||
| auxA = Title | | auxA = Title | ||
| color1 = #0257AC | | color1 = #0257AC | ||
| Line 103: | Line 100: | ||
| auxA1 = Taj: Divided by Blood | | auxA1 = Taj: Divided by Blood | ||
| episodes1 = 10 | | episodes1 = 10 | ||
| | | released1 = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
| color2 = #43587A | | color2 = #43587A | ||
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| auxA2 = Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge | | auxA2 = Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge | ||
| episodes2 = 8 | | episodes2 = 8 | ||
| | | released2 = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = After a few decades of conquering Chittorgarh and witnessing the prophecy of saint Salim Chisti almost coming true, Akbar decides to change the rules of succession to the Mughal throne. Who among his sons will prove worthy of the crown? | |ShortSummary = After a few decades of conquering Chittorgarh and witnessing the prophecy of saint Salim Chisti almost coming true, Akbar decides to change the rules of succession to the Mughal throne. Who among his sons will prove worthy of the crown? | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Ready to teach his brother a lesson, Akbar decides to wage a war in Kabul. He arranges a horse-taming competition to choose the right heir to lead his army, and hopes Salim will win. | |ShortSummary = Ready to teach his brother a lesson, Akbar decides to wage a war in Kabul. He arranges a horse-taming competition to choose the right heir to lead his army, and hopes Salim will win. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = The celebrations of winning the Kabul war turn into a brawl among the three brothers, and Akbar is infuriated. He visualises himself as a messenger of God in a dream and announces a new religion, Din-I-Ilahi. | |ShortSummary = The celebrations of winning the Kabul war turn into a brawl among the three brothers, and Akbar is infuriated. He visualises himself as a messenger of God in a dream and announces a new religion, Din-I-Ilahi. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = The announcement of the new religion disrupts the balance in the state. After Akbar escapes a vicious attack, every prince and queen is questioned. Salim's concubines put him in a spot. | |ShortSummary = The announcement of the new religion disrupts the balance in the state. After Akbar escapes a vicious attack, every prince and queen is questioned. Salim's concubines put him in a spot. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Akbar sends Murad and Daniyal to strengthen alliances in the North and orders Salim to get married. Salim agrees to exchange vows under pressure but does something that shocks the court. | |ShortSummary = Akbar sends Murad and Daniyal to strengthen alliances in the North and orders Salim to get married. Salim agrees to exchange vows under pressure but does something that shocks the court. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = While the princes are battling, Agra gets a new prince - Khusrow - Salim's firstborn son. Murad gets a whiff of Hakim, who has been on the run since the Kabul war. Will the discovery of Hakim's whereabouts expose Daniyal? | |ShortSummary = While the princes are battling, Agra gets a new prince - Khusrow - Salim's firstborn son. Murad gets a whiff of Hakim, who has been on the run since the Kabul war. Will the discovery of Hakim's whereabouts expose Daniyal? | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Murad is chastised by Akbar for getting Hakim in chains. While more brides are arranged to ensure Salim's focus on the matters of the palace, his love for Anarkali makes him walk into Abul Fazl's trap. | |ShortSummary = Murad is chastised by Akbar for getting Hakim in chains. While more brides are arranged to ensure Salim's focus on the matters of the palace, his love for Anarkali makes him walk into Abul Fazl's trap. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = The entire palace learns about the secret. The favourite prince is no more a favourite as Abul Fazl wins the game. Salim is forced to go into exile, and Daniyal is left broken. | |ShortSummary = The entire palace learns about the secret. The favourite prince is no more a favourite as Abul Fazl wins the game. Salim is forced to go into exile, and Daniyal is left broken. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Anarkali escapes the death sentence. While Akbar wants to go easy on Salim, he ends up making rogue decisions. Salim wants to meet Anarkali, but Daniyal's men capture her. | |ShortSummary = Anarkali escapes the death sentence. While Akbar wants to go easy on Salim, he ends up making rogue decisions. Salim wants to meet Anarkali, but Daniyal's men capture her. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|03|03}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Daniyal's allies attack Salim. Murad's mysterious death breaks Akbar, who now wants to make the most of what is left. | |ShortSummary = Daniyal's allies attack Salim. Murad's mysterious death breaks Akbar, who now wants to make the most of what is left. | ||
|LineColor = 0257AC | |||
}}}} | }}}} | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | ||
|ShortSummary = It has been 15 years since the war. The Mughal Empire is at peace, yet Akbar is not. He visits Sheikh Salim Chsti for advice. As Daniyal waits for the throne, Prince Salim returns to the court. | |ShortSummary = It has been 15 years since the war. The Mughal Empire is at peace, yet Akbar is not. He visits Sheikh Salim Chsti for advice. As Daniyal waits for the throne, Prince Salim returns to the court. | ||
|LineColor = 43587A | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | ||
|ShortSummary = All camps swing into action to take down the Bandit Prince. Mehrunnisa sets her eyes on Salim and wins Jodha’s favour. Abul Fazl plots against them. Daniyal’s insecurities come to the fore.. | |ShortSummary = All camps swing into action to take down the Bandit Prince. Mehrunnisa sets her eyes on Salim and wins Jodha’s favour. Abul Fazl plots against them. Daniyal’s insecurities come to the fore.. | ||
|LineColor = 43587A | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Akbar organises a hunt in the hopes of reuniting the family. Salim wins favour in the kingdom with the help of Mehrunissa. A surprise visitor poses a threat to Salim. | |ShortSummary = Akbar organises a hunt in the hopes of reuniting the family. Salim wins favour in the kingdom with the help of Mehrunissa. A surprise visitor poses a threat to Salim. | ||
|LineColor = 43587A | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|05|12}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Mehrunissa finds her way into Akbar’s harem while she plans on becoming Salim’s greatest strength. Daniyal summons his allies for a clandestine meeting, and Salim becomes a threat to Akbar’s empire. | |ShortSummary = Mehrunissa finds her way into Akbar’s harem while she plans on becoming Salim’s greatest strength. Daniyal summons his allies for a clandestine meeting, and Salim becomes a threat to Akbar’s empire. | ||
|LineColor = 43587A | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Salim and Akbar are haunted by their past. The kingdom is rife with anticipation about the future as Akbar’s health worsens. Ruqaiya and Abul Fazl plot against Salim, while Daniyal has a surprise visitor. | |ShortSummary = Salim and Akbar are haunted by their past. The kingdom is rife with anticipation about the future as Akbar’s health worsens. Ruqaiya and Abul Fazl plot against Salim, while Daniyal has a surprise visitor. | ||
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{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Ruqaiya, under the guise of the Queen Regent, devises a scheme to eliminate Salim’s claim to the throne. Mehrunissa manipulates her niece to get close to Khurram, while Abul Fazl's arrogance leads to his downfall. | |ShortSummary = Ruqaiya, under the guise of the Queen Regent, devises a scheme to eliminate Salim’s claim to the throne. Mehrunissa manipulates her niece to get close to Khurram, while Abul Fazl's arrogance leads to his downfall. | ||
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{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Amidst Akbar’s ailing health, the uncertainty about the heir to the throne looms large over the kingdom. Paying heed to his mother and son's requests, Salim returns to the kingdom and marries Mehrunissa. Khurram helps Akbar and Salim unite. | |ShortSummary = Amidst Akbar’s ailing health, the uncertainty about the heir to the throne looms large over the kingdom. Paying heed to his mother and son's requests, Salim returns to the kingdom and marries Mehrunissa. Khurram helps Akbar and Salim unite. | ||
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{{Episode list | {{Episode list | ||
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|OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | |OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|df=yes|2023|06|2}} | ||
|ShortSummary = Salim is declared the rightful heir to the throne. Akbar’s last rites are marred by bloodshed and chaos. As he ascends the throne, Salim transforms into the self-centred Jehangir. Khurram and Arjumand elope marking the beginning of a new era. | |ShortSummary = Salim is declared the rightful heir to the throne. Akbar’s last rites are marred by bloodshed and chaos. As he ascends the throne, Salim transforms into the self-centred Jehangir. Khurram and Arjumand elope marking the beginning of a new era. | ||
|LineColor = 43587A | |||
}}}} | }}}} | ||
== Production == | == Production == | ||
The show was first announced in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url= https://www.medianews4u.com/applause-contiloe-join-forces-taj-monument-blood-series-mughal-empire-extravaganza/ |title = Applause and Contiloe join forces for Taj – A Monument of Blood; a Series on Mughal Empire extravaganza |date = 13 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123112526/https://www.medianews4u.com/applause-contiloe-join-forces-taj-monument-blood-series-mughal-empire-extravaganza/ |archive-date=2021-01-23 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web| title='Taj - A Monument of Blood': A series on rise and fall of Mughal empire|url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/entertainment/taj-a-monument-of-blood-drama-series-on-mughals-rise-and-fall|access-date= February | The show was first announced in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url= https://www.medianews4u.com/applause-contiloe-join-forces-taj-monument-blood-series-mughal-empire-extravaganza/ |title = Applause and Contiloe join forces for Taj – A Monument of Blood; a Series on Mughal Empire extravaganza |date = 13 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123112526/https://www.medianews4u.com/applause-contiloe-join-forces-taj-monument-blood-series-mughal-empire-extravaganza/ |archive-date=2021-01-23 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web| title='Taj - A Monument of Blood': A series on rise and fall of Mughal empire|url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/entertainment/taj-a-monument-of-blood-drama-series-on-mughals-rise-and-fall|access-date= 17 February 2023|website=National Herald |date=12 July 2018 |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210324070713/https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/entertainment/taj-a-monument-of-blood-drama-series-on-mughals-rise-and-fall |archive-date=2021-03-24 |url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
== Release == | == Release == | ||
The first season premiered on [[ZEE5]] on 3 March 2023.<ref>{{Cite web| title=ZEE5 series 'Taj – Divided by Blood' to debut on March 3|url=https://theprint.in/features/zee5-series-taj-divided-by-blood-to-debut-on-march-3/1379832/|access-date= February | The first season premiered on [[ZEE5]] on 3 March 2023.<ref>{{Cite web| title=ZEE5 series 'Taj – Divided by Blood' to debut on March 3|url=https://theprint.in/features/zee5-series-taj-divided-by-blood-to-debut-on-march-3/1379832/|access-date=17 February 2023|website=The Print |date=17 February 2023 |language=en}}</ref> The second season premiered on 12 May 2023.<ref>{{Cite news| title=ZEE5 series 'Taj – Divided by Blood' to debut on March 3|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/new-updates/taj-reign-of-revenge-trailer-out-see-when-and-where-to-watch-taj-season-2/articleshow/99709788.cms | ||
|access-date= 1 May 2023|website=The Economic Times |date=23 April 2023 | |access-date= 1 May 2023|website=The Economic Times |date=23 April 2023 | ||
|language=en}}</ref> | |language=en}}</ref> | ||
== Promotion == | == Promotion == | ||
The peek into the show was released by Dharmendra, when he shared that he is playing Sheikh Salim Chisti in this show.<ref>{{cite web | title= TAJ- Divided by Blood: Man asks why Dharmendra is behaving like a struggling actor; His reply wins hearts|url= https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/taj-divided-by-blood-man-asks-why-dharmendra-is-behaving-like-a-struggling-actor-his-reply-wins-hearts-1209406|website=PinkVilla |date= 15 February 2023|access-date=February | The peek into the show was released by Dharmendra, when he shared that he is playing Sheikh Salim Chisti in this show.<ref>{{cite web | title= TAJ- Divided by Blood: Man asks why Dharmendra is behaving like a struggling actor; His reply wins hearts|url= https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/taj-divided-by-blood-man-asks-why-dharmendra-is-behaving-like-a-struggling-actor-his-reply-wins-hearts-1209406|website=PinkVilla |date= 15 February 2023|access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217015608/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/taj-divided-by-blood-man-asks-why-dharmendra-is-behaving-like-a-struggling-actor-his-reply-wins-hearts-1209406 |archive-date=2023-02-17 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title= Dharmendra looks almost unrecognisable as Sheikh Salim Chisti from Taj-Royal Blood|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/web-series/dharmendra-looks-almost-unrecognisable-as-sheikh-salim-chisti-from-taj-royal-blood-101676436180357.html|website=Hindustan Times |date=15 February 2023 |access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217094621/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/web-series/dharmendra-looks-almost-unrecognisable-as-sheikh-salim-chisti-from-taj-royal-blood-101676436180357.html |archive-date=2023-02-17 |url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
The logo was unveiled at a ceremony in Mumbai on February | The logo was unveiled at a ceremony in Mumbai on 14 February.<ref>{{cite web | title= Taj-Divided By Blood Trailer Out! Naseeruddin Shah, Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari's Period Drama Is Interesting And Intense|url= https://www.telegraphindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydari-and-aashim-gulati-attend-the-logo-unveiling-of-taj-divided-by-blood-photogallery/cid/1916425?slide=4|website=The Telegraph (India) |access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref> Subsequently, the trailer was launched on 17 February.<ref>{{cite web | title= Taj-Divided By Blood Trailer Out! Naseeruddin Shah, Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari's Period Drama Is Interesting And Intense|url= https://www.latestly.com/socially/entertainment/tv/taj-divided-by-blood-trailer-out-naseeruddin-shah-dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydaris-period-drama-is-interesting-and-intense-watch-video-4854730.html|website=Latestly |date= 17 February 2023|access-date=17 February 2023}}</ref> | ||
The second season was announced with a trailer on April | The second season was announced with a trailer on 23 April 2023.<ref>{{cite web | title= Taj: Reign of Revenge Trailer - When And Where To Watch Season 2 Of Naseeruddin Shah, Aashim Gulati-Starrer|url= https://www.thedailyjagran.com/entertainment/taj-reign-of-revenge-trailer-when-and-where-to-watch-season-2-of-naseeruddin-shah-aashim-gulatistarrer-10074686|website=Jagran |date= 23 April 2023|access-date=1 May 2023}}</ref> | ||
== Reception == | == Reception == | ||
[[Shubhra Gupta]] of ''[[The Indian Express]]'' wrote "From the fifth episode on, you can see the series lose steam. The writing, which had kept us engaged till then, starts getting repetitive, which leads to the flaws which we had managed to ignore demanding our attention."<ref>{{cite news |last=Gupta |first=Shubhra |author-link=Shubhra Gupta |title=Taj Divided By Blood review: Naseeruddin Shah series ends up as Mughal-e-Azam lite |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/web-series/taj-divided-by-blood-review-naseeruddin-shah-series-8477167/ |access-date=3 March 2023 |work=[[The Indian Express]] |date=March | It received mostly positive reviews with praise for its performances (especially Shah's), screenplay, dialogues and criticism for its [[visual effects]]. | ||
[[Shubhra Gupta]] of ''[[The Indian Express]]'' wrote "From the fifth episode on, you can see the series lose steam. The writing, which had kept us engaged till then, starts getting repetitive, which leads to the flaws which we had managed to ignore demanding our attention."<ref>{{cite news |last=Gupta |first=Shubhra |author-link=Shubhra Gupta |title=Taj Divided By Blood review: Naseeruddin Shah series ends up as Mughal-e-Azam lite |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/web-series/taj-divided-by-blood-review-naseeruddin-shah-series-8477167/ |access-date=3 March 2023 |work=[[The Indian Express]] |date=3 March 2023 |language=en}}</ref> Syed Firdaus Ashraf of ''[[Rediff.com]]'' rated 1.5/5 stars and wrote "Naseeruddin Shah, who plays Akbar, looks thoroughly disinterested as if he is only playing the part for a hefty fee. Rahul Bose is a complete misfit playing the jihadi Mirza Muhammad Hakim South Mumbai style. Aditi Rao Hydari as Anarkali looks lost and is unconvincing in her love for Salim."<ref>{{cite news |last=Ashraf |first=Syed Firdaus |title=Taj: Divided By Blood: History In A Mess |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/taj-divided-by-blood-review/20230303.htm |access-date=3 March 2023 |work=[[Rediff.com]] |date=3 March 2023 |language=en}}{{rating|1.5|5}}</ref> | |||
[[Saibal Chatterjee]] of ''[[NDTV]]'' rated the series 2.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "Taj: Divided by Blood is crafted with diligence. Parts of the show are informed with enough drama and intrigue to perk things up. It, however, frequently feels a touch strained and repetitive. It is neither Mughal-e-Azam nor Game of Thrones."<ref>{{cite news |last=Chatterjee |first=Saibal |author-link=Saibal Chatterjee |title=Taj: Divided By Blood Review - Neither Mughal-E-Azam Nor Game Of Thrones |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/taj-divided-by-blood-review-neither-mughal-e-azam-nor-game-of-thrones-2-5-stars-3833624 |access-date=4 March 2023 |work=[[NDTV]] |date=March | [[Saibal Chatterjee]] of ''[[NDTV]]'' rated the series 2.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "Taj: Divided by Blood is crafted with diligence. Parts of the show are informed with enough drama and intrigue to perk things up. It, however, frequently feels a touch strained and repetitive. It is neither Mughal-e-Azam nor Game of Thrones."<ref>{{cite news |last=Chatterjee |first=Saibal |author-link=Saibal Chatterjee |title=Taj: Divided By Blood Review - Neither Mughal-E-Azam Nor Game Of Thrones |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/taj-divided-by-blood-review-neither-mughal-e-azam-nor-game-of-thrones-2-5-stars-3833624 |access-date=4 March 2023 |work=[[NDTV]] |date=4 March 2023}}{{rating|2.5|5}}</ref> | ||
Shilajit Mitra for ''[[The Hindu]]'' wrote "We get a mammoth battle sequence in Kabul near the start. Though immensely staged, it bored me to bits with its obvious choreography (first the archers come on, then the infantry, then the cannonballs...). Far more memorable, then, is this exchange between Akbar and his ministers, after he announces his plans for ‘Din-I-Illahi’. They look crestfallen until one of them calls for a change in conventional thinking."<ref>{{cite news |last=Mitra |first=Shilajit |title=Taj: Divided by Blood series review: Naseeruddin Shah lords over a weary epic |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/taj-divided-by-blood-series-review-naseeruddin-shah-lords-over-a-weary-epic/article66575083.ece |access-date=March | Shilajit Mitra for ''[[The Hindu]]'' wrote "We get a mammoth battle sequence in Kabul near the start. Though immensely staged, it bored me to bits with its obvious choreography (first the archers come on, then the infantry, then the cannonballs...). Far more memorable, then, is this exchange between Akbar and his ministers, after he announces his plans for ‘Din-I-Illahi’. They look crestfallen until one of them calls for a change in conventional thinking."<ref>{{cite news |last=Mitra |first=Shilajit |title=Taj: Divided by Blood series review: Naseeruddin Shah lords over a weary epic |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/taj-divided-by-blood-series-review-naseeruddin-shah-lords-over-a-weary-epic/article66575083.ece |access-date=3 March 2023 |work=[[The Hindu]] |date=3 March 2023 |language=en-IN}}</ref> | ||
Suchandra Bose for ''[[The Quint]]'' rated 3.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "One of the major pitfalls of the show is its incapacity to dig a little deeper into the characters – Salim is an opium lover with a heart of gold, Jodha (Sandhya Mridul) is a concerned mother, Akbar is a ruthless ruler – their characterization can be condensed in three to four adjectives."<ref>{{cite news |last=Bose |first=Suchandra |title='Taj Divided By Blood' Review: Mughal 'Game of Thrones' Lacks Depth & Intrigue |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/taj-divided-by-blood-review-mughal-game-of-thrones-naseeruddin-shah-and-aditi-rao-hydari#read-more |access-date=4 March 2023 |work=[[The Quint]] |date=March | Suchandra Bose for ''[[The Quint]]'' rated 3.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "One of the major pitfalls of the show is its incapacity to dig a little deeper into the characters – Salim is an opium lover with a heart of gold, Jodha (Sandhya Mridul) is a concerned mother, Akbar is a ruthless ruler – their characterization can be condensed in three to four adjectives."<ref>{{cite news |last=Bose |first=Suchandra |title='Taj Divided By Blood' Review: Mughal 'Game of Thrones' Lacks Depth & Intrigue |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/taj-divided-by-blood-review-mughal-game-of-thrones-naseeruddin-shah-and-aditi-rao-hydari#read-more |access-date=4 March 2023 |work=[[The Quint]] |date=3 March 2023 |language=en}}{{rating|3.5|5}}</ref> | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
| Line 292: | Line 310: | ||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Empire (TV series), The}} | {{DEFAULTSORT:Empire (TV series), The}} | ||
[[Category:Hindi-language television shows]] | [[Category:Hindi-language television shows]] | ||
[[Category:Mughal Empire | [[Category:Works set in the Mughal Empire]] | ||
[[Category:Indian action television series]] | [[Category:Indian action television series]] | ||
[[Category:Indian drama television series]] | [[Category:Indian drama television series]] | ||
[[Category:Indian | [[Category:Indian historical television series]] | ||
[[Category:Family saga television series]] | [[Category:Family saga television series]] | ||
[[Category:Television series about dysfunctional families]] | [[Category:Television series about dysfunctional families]] | ||
[[Category:2023 Indian television series debuts]] | [[Category:2023 Indian television series debuts]] | ||
[[Category:Cultural depictions of Indian | [[Category:Cultural depictions of Indian people]] | ||
[[Category:Moghulistan]] | [[Category:Moghulistan]] | ||
[[Category:Khanate of Bukhara]] | [[Category:Khanate of Bukhara]] | ||
Latest revision as of 10:21, 5 February 2026
| Taj: Divided by Blood | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Genre | Drama Historical fiction |
| Created by | Abhimanyu Singh |
| Written by | Dialogues Ajay Singh |
| Screenplay by | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo |
| Story by | Christopher Butera, Anand Neelakantan |
| Directed by | Ron Scalpello Vibhu Puri |
| Starring | |
| Composers | Music Ian Arber |
| Country of origin | India |
| Original languages |
|
| No. of seasons | 2 |
| No. of episodes | 18 |
| Production | |
| Producers | Abhimanyu Singh Roopali Kadyan |
| Cinematography | Simon Temple Tejal Shetye |
| Editors | Irfan Ishak Ben King Ruchi Barar |
| Production company | Contiloe Pictures |
| Release | |
| Original network | ZEE5 |
| Original release | 3 March – 2 June 2023 |
| External links | |
| [{{#property:P856}} Website] | |
Taj: Divided by Blood is an Indian period drama streaming television series produced by Contiloe Pictures for ZEE5.[1][2] The series stars Dharmendra, Naseeruddin Shah, Rahul Bose, Aditi Rao Hydari, Zarina Wahab, Sandhya Mridul, Aashim Gulati and Taaha Shah in primary roles.[3][4] It is produced by Abhimanyu Singh, Roopali Singh and William Borthwick. The first season premiered on ZEE5 on 3 March 2023. The second season, titled Taj: Reign of Revenge, premiered on 12 May 2023.[5]
Premise[edit | edit source]
Taj: Divided by Blood[edit | edit source]
Set in the 16th century, the story follows Akbar and the war of succession amongst his 3 sons: Salim, Murad, and Daniyal. It is a twisted tale of the struggle for power filled with dangerous politics, poetic beauty, torrid romances, cold treachery, and bloodshed.[6] The show unravels multiple layers of each character in the Mughal dynasty. The series dramatizes the rise and fall of the various generations of the Mughal Empire, showcasing both the beauty as well as the brutality of the dynasty.[7]
Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge[edit | edit source]
The season charters Salim's journey from being the exiled enemy of the Mughal empire to seeking blood and revenge in an attempt to become the next Emperor. On this dark, dangerous, and destructive path, he is surrounded by enemies from all sides with few allies like his new love interest - Meherunnissa.
Cast[edit | edit source]
- Dharmendra as Sheikh Salim Chisti[8]
- Naseeruddin Shah as Akbar[9]
- Aaryama Salim as young Akbar
- Aashim Gulati as Salim/Jahangir
- Aditi Rao Hydari as Anarkali
- Sauraseni Maitra as Mehrunnisa/Nur Jahan[10]
- Sauyma Setia as young Mehrunnisa
- Rahul Bose as Mirza Muhammad Hakim
- Zarina Wahab as Salima Sultan Begum
- Sandhya Mridul as Jodha Bai
- Taha Shah Badussha as Murad
- Shubham Kumar Mehra as Daniyal Mirza
- Pankaj Saraswat as Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak
- Digambar Prasad as Man Singh I
- Mitansh Lulla as Khurram/Shah Jahan (season-2)
- Jiansh Agarwal as Khusrau Mirza (season-2)
- Suhani Juneja as Arjumand Banu Begum/Mumtaz Mahal
- Rajat Kaul as Abu'l-Hasan Asaf Khan (season-2)
- Akshay Agarwal as Amar Singh I (season-2)
- Rouhallah Quazim as Sher Afgan Khan (season-2)
- Arman Khera as Mahabat Khan (season-2)
- Anushka Luhar as Man Bai/Sha Begum[11]
- Mir Sarwar as Bairam Khan[12]
- Tanvi Negi as Jagat Gossain
- ActorsFirdaush as Hakim Hasan (season-2)
- Janam Raj as Sahib Jamal
- Subodh Bhave as Birbal[13]
- Akshat Mishra as Durjan
- Pawan Chopra as Ghiyas Beg
- Padma Damodaran as Ruqaiya Sultan Begum
- Shivani Tanksale as Bakht-un-Nissa Begum
- Aayam Mehta as Badayuni
- Deepraj Rana as Maharana Pratap
- Zachary Coffin as Father Monserrate
- Saurabh Selwal as young Asaf Khan
Series overview[edit | edit source]
| Season | Title | Episodes | Originally aired | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First aired | Last aired | ||||
Episodes[edit | edit source]
Taj: Divided by Blood[edit | edit source]
| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Succession" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| After a few decades of conquering Chittorgarh and witnessing the prophecy of saint Salim Chisti almost coming true, Akbar decides to change the rules of succession to the Mughal throne. Who among his sons will prove worthy of the crown? | |||||
| 2 | "The Battle of Kabul" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| Ready to teach his brother a lesson, Akbar decides to wage a war in Kabul. He arranges a horse-taming competition to choose the right heir to lead his army, and hopes Salim will win. | |||||
| 3 | "A Message from God" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| The celebrations of winning the Kabul war turn into a brawl among the three brothers, and Akbar is infuriated. He visualises himself as a messenger of God in a dream and announces a new religion, Din-I-Ilahi. | |||||
| 4 | "May His Glory Be Glorified" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| The announcement of the new religion disrupts the balance in the state. After Akbar escapes a vicious attack, every prince and queen is questioned. Salim's concubines put him in a spot. | |||||
| 5 | "Qubool Hai" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| Akbar sends Murad and Daniyal to strengthen alliances in the North and orders Salim to get married. Salim agrees to exchange vows under pressure but does something that shocks the court. | |||||
| 6 | "Birth of A King" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| While the princes are battling, Agra gets a new prince - Khusrow - Salim's firstborn son. Murad gets a whiff of Hakim, who has been on the run since the Kabul war. Will the discovery of Hakim's whereabouts expose Daniyal? | |||||
| 7 | "Sins of The Father" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| Murad is chastised by Akbar for getting Hakim in chains. While more brides are arranged to ensure Salim's focus on the matters of the palace, his love for Anarkali makes him walk into Abul Fazl's trap. | |||||
| 8 | "How They Sing" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| The entire palace learns about the secret. The favourite prince is no more a favourite as Abul Fazl wins the game. Salim is forced to go into exile, and Daniyal is left broken. | |||||
| 9 | "The Lies They Tell" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| Anarkali escapes the death sentence. While Akbar wants to go easy on Salim, he ends up making rogue decisions. Salim wants to meet Anarkali, but Daniyal's men capture her. | |||||
| 10 | "All That Remains" | Ronald Scalpello | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 3 March 2023 | |
| Daniyal's allies attack Salim. Murad's mysterious death breaks Akbar, who now wants to make the most of what is left. | |||||
Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge[edit | edit source]
| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original air date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Return of The Bandit Prince" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 12 May 2023 | |
| It has been 15 years since the war. The Mughal Empire is at peace, yet Akbar is not. He visits Sheikh Salim Chsti for advice. As Daniyal waits for the throne, Prince Salim returns to the court. | |||||
| 2 | "A Kingdom of Snakes" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 12 May 2023 | |
| All camps swing into action to take down the Bandit Prince. Mehrunnisa sets her eyes on Salim and wins Jodha’s favour. Abul Fazl plots against them. Daniyal’s insecurities come to the fore.. | |||||
| 3 | "The Hunt" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 12 May 2023 | |
| Akbar organises a hunt in the hopes of reuniting the family. Salim wins favour in the kingdom with the help of Mehrunissa. A surprise visitor poses a threat to Salim. | |||||
| 4 | "Rise of the Sultan" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 12 May 2023 | |
| Mehrunissa finds her way into Akbar’s harem while she plans on becoming Salim’s greatest strength. Daniyal summons his allies for a clandestine meeting, and Salim becomes a threat to Akbar’s empire. | |||||
| 5 | "Blood Brothers" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 2 June 2023 | |
| Salim and Akbar are haunted by their past. The kingdom is rife with anticipation about the future as Akbar’s health worsens. Ruqaiya and Abul Fazl plot against Salim, while Daniyal has a surprise visitor. | |||||
| 6 | "The Queen Regent" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 2 June 2023 | |
| Ruqaiya, under the guise of the Queen Regent, devises a scheme to eliminate Salim’s claim to the throne. Mehrunissa manipulates her niece to get close to Khurram, while Abul Fazl's arrogance leads to his downfall. | |||||
| 7 | "The Whisper of Death" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 2 June 2023 | |
| Amidst Akbar’s ailing health, the uncertainty about the heir to the throne looms large over the kingdom. Paying heed to his mother and son's requests, Salim returns to the kingdom and marries Mehrunissa. Khurram helps Akbar and Salim unite. | |||||
| 8 | "The Crown of Thorns" | Vibhu Puri | William Borthwick Simon Fantauzzo | 2 June 2023 | |
| Salim is declared the rightful heir to the throne. Akbar’s last rites are marred by bloodshed and chaos. As he ascends the throne, Salim transforms into the self-centred Jehangir. Khurram and Arjumand elope marking the beginning of a new era. | |||||
Production[edit | edit source]
The show was first announced in 2018.[14][15]
Release[edit | edit source]
The first season premiered on ZEE5 on 3 March 2023.[16] The second season premiered on 12 May 2023.[17]
Promotion[edit | edit source]
The peek into the show was released by Dharmendra, when he shared that he is playing Sheikh Salim Chisti in this show.[18][19] The logo was unveiled at a ceremony in Mumbai on 14 February.[20] Subsequently, the trailer was launched on 17 February.[21] The second season was announced with a trailer on 23 April 2023.[22]
Reception[edit | edit source]
It received mostly positive reviews with praise for its performances (especially Shah's), screenplay, dialogues and criticism for its visual effects.
Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express wrote "From the fifth episode on, you can see the series lose steam. The writing, which had kept us engaged till then, starts getting repetitive, which leads to the flaws which we had managed to ignore demanding our attention."[23] Syed Firdaus Ashraf of Rediff.com rated 1.5/5 stars and wrote "Naseeruddin Shah, who plays Akbar, looks thoroughly disinterested as if he is only playing the part for a hefty fee. Rahul Bose is a complete misfit playing the jihadi Mirza Muhammad Hakim South Mumbai style. Aditi Rao Hydari as Anarkali looks lost and is unconvincing in her love for Salim."[24]
Saibal Chatterjee of NDTV rated the series 2.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "Taj: Divided by Blood is crafted with diligence. Parts of the show are informed with enough drama and intrigue to perk things up. It, however, frequently feels a touch strained and repetitive. It is neither Mughal-e-Azam nor Game of Thrones."[25]
Shilajit Mitra for The Hindu wrote "We get a mammoth battle sequence in Kabul near the start. Though immensely staged, it bored me to bits with its obvious choreography (first the archers come on, then the infantry, then the cannonballs...). Far more memorable, then, is this exchange between Akbar and his ministers, after he announces his plans for ‘Din-I-Illahi’. They look crestfallen until one of them calls for a change in conventional thinking."[26]
Suchandra Bose for The Quint rated 3.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "One of the major pitfalls of the show is its incapacity to dig a little deeper into the characters – Salim is an opium lover with a heart of gold, Jodha (Sandhya Mridul) is a concerned mother, Akbar is a ruthless ruler – their characterization can be condensed in three to four adjectives."[27]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ ZEE5 announces a new original series Taj – Divided by Blood, 14 February 2023, retrieved 17 February 2023
- ↑ "ZEE5 announces a new original series, 'Taj – Divided by Blood'". Adgully. 14 February 2023. Archived from the original on 14 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "Dharmendra, Naseeruddin Shah to star in new ZEE5 series 'Taj – Divided by Blood'". The Hindu. 14 February 2023. Archived from the original on 15 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "Taj- Divided by Blood: Dharmendra as Chisti while Naseeruddin Shah turns King Akbar for new ZEE5 series". India TV. 15 February 2023. Archived from the original on 17 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "Taj: Divided by Blood gets a season 2: Here's when Taj: Reign of Revenge will premiere on ZEE5". www.OTTPlay.com. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ↑ "Taj: Divided by Blood" to Premiere on ZEE5 on 3 March 2023". rw Media. Archived from the original on 25 February 2023. Retrieved 25 February 2023.
- ↑ "Naseeruddin Shah, Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari to star in ZEE5 series Taj – Divided by Blood". India TV. 15 February 2023. Archived from the original on 17 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ Service, Statesman News (18 February 2023). "Taj – Divided by Blood trailer out". The Statesman. Retrieved 18 February 2023.
- ↑ Taj – Divided By Blood: Naseeruddin Shah All Set To Play Emperor Akbar In New Web Series!, 14 February 2023, retrieved 17 February 2023
- ↑ Sauraseni Maitra speaks about blending into two entertainment industries, 13 April 2023, retrieved 1 May 2023
- ↑ "Anushka Luhar to star in ZEE5 digital series 'Taj – Divided by Blood'", Femina Miss India, retrieved 17 February 2023
- ↑ "Taj: Divided by Blood Web Series (2023) | Release Date, Review, Cast, Trailer, Watch Online at Zee5". Gadgets 360. Retrieved 3 March 2023.
- ↑ Subodh Bhave: मराठमोळा अभिनेता सुबोध भावे बनणार 'बिरबल'; मुघलांवर आधारित 'या' सीरिजमध्ये झळकणार! (in मराठी), retrieved 17 February 2023
- ↑ "Applause and Contiloe join forces for Taj – A Monument of Blood; a Series on Mughal Empire extravaganza". 13 July 2018. Archived from the original on 23 January 2021.
- ↑ "'Taj - A Monument of Blood': A series on rise and fall of Mughal empire". National Herald. 12 July 2018. Archived from the original on 24 March 2021. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "ZEE5 series 'Taj – Divided by Blood' to debut on March 3". The Print. 17 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "ZEE5 series 'Taj – Divided by Blood' to debut on March 3". The Economic Times. 23 April 2023. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ↑ "TAJ- Divided by Blood: Man asks why Dharmendra is behaving like a struggling actor; His reply wins hearts". PinkVilla. 15 February 2023. Archived from the original on 17 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "Dharmendra looks almost unrecognisable as Sheikh Salim Chisti from Taj-Royal Blood". Hindustan Times. 15 February 2023. Archived from the original on 17 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "Taj-Divided By Blood Trailer Out! Naseeruddin Shah, Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari's Period Drama Is Interesting And Intense". The Telegraph (India). Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "Taj-Divided By Blood Trailer Out! Naseeruddin Shah, Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari's Period Drama Is Interesting And Intense". Latestly. 17 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ↑ "Taj: Reign of Revenge Trailer - When And Where To Watch Season 2 Of Naseeruddin Shah, Aashim Gulati-Starrer". Jagran. 23 April 2023. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ↑ Gupta, Shubhra (3 March 2023). "Taj Divided By Blood review: Naseeruddin Shah series ends up as Mughal-e-Azam lite". The Indian Express. Retrieved 3 March 2023.
- ↑ Ashraf, Syed Firdaus (3 March 2023). "Taj: Divided By Blood: History In A Mess". Rediff.com. Retrieved 3 March 2023.
- ↑ Chatterjee, Saibal (4 March 2023). "Taj: Divided By Blood Review - Neither Mughal-E-Azam Nor Game Of Thrones". NDTV. Retrieved 4 March 2023.
- ↑ Mitra, Shilajit (3 March 2023). "Taj: Divided by Blood series review: Naseeruddin Shah lords over a weary epic". The Hindu. Retrieved 3 March 2023.
- ↑ Bose, Suchandra (3 March 2023). "'Taj Divided By Blood' Review: Mughal 'Game of Thrones' Lacks Depth & Intrigue". The Quint. Retrieved 4 March 2023.