PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended a special preview screening of the epic historical film Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story on Friday (Feb 6) in support of his longtime friend, writer, producer and director Akbar Khan.
The Prime Minister arrived at the GSC cinema at IOI City Mall at 8pm and took time to mingle with guests.
His presence alongside his longtime friend highlighted cinema's role as a bridge between nations and a platform for universal human values.
The Prime Minister later watched the film, which portrays the legendary love story between Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, presented as a historical retelling emphasising themes of loyalty, sacrifice and enduring love, set against the grandeur of the iconic Taj Mahal.
Also present were Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din and National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) chairman Datuk Hans Isaac.
The special screening at GSC IOI City Mall served as a prelude to the film's first global commercial re-release, marking the start of its international tour.
The selection of Kuala Lumpur as the venue for the world premiere reflects confidence in the local market and Malaysia's role as a regional cultural and diplomatic hub capable of hosting world-class screenings, while celebrating shared heritage and fostering international dialogue through the arts.
Twenty-two years after its original release in India, the award-winning film has been revived through a comprehensive 4K digital restoration, accompanied by Dolby Atmos sound remastering.
This approach offers a more immersive viewing experience for contemporary audiences while preserving the film's original grandeur and enhancing it to modern technical standards.
Following its debut in Malaysia, the film will continue its international tour in Indonesia on Feb 13, before expanding to Russia, South Asia, the Middle East and Western markets.
As the first country to host the new global launch by Veedu Production Sdn Bhd, in collaboration with Finas, Malaysia serves as a key platform in conveying the message that love, culture and human connection transcend borders and time.
Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story is scheduled to be screened in cinemas nationwide starting Friday. - Bernama
