The highly anticipated historical feature film, Lioness, is set to make waves as the first official India-UK co-production under a treaty signed in 2008. The film brings together the talents of Aditi Rao Hydari (known for her work in Jubilee) and British actress Paige Sandhu (recognized for her role in Emmerdale).
Directed by Kajri Babbar, Lioness weaves together the stories of two British Punjabi women who lived in the UK a century apart. One storyline revolves around Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, a historical figure who played a significant role in the British suffragette movement. As the Princess of Punjab and the goddaughter of Queen Victoria, Sophia's impact on society was profound. The second storyline follows the fictional character Mehak, an educated immigrant woman who resided in Southall, a London suburb, during the 1990s.
Paige Sandhu, a talented actress of Indian origin, will portray Princess Sophia, expressing her deep appreciation for the opportunity: "It's an honor and a dream come true to be playing Princess Sophia Duleep Singh. I am very humbled to be portraying someone with a legacy such as hers, the work that she did, the lives she helped and the family she came from."
Aditi Rao Hydari, known for her versatile roles in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu films, will take on the character of Mehak. Aditi shares her immediate connection to the story, saying, "I was instantly drawn to the story that brings to the screen the life and legacy of an extraordinary woman; a story lost in history. While Princess Sophia is a heroine in the true sense of the word, Mehak is an equally strong character whose journey parallels the Lioness's in the present."
The film is backed by a strong production team, including producers Vivek Rangachari, Vaishalli Paatil, Faraz Ahsan, and Clare Cahill. Ajit Pal Singh serves as the executive producer. Notably, Peter Bance, the historian whose research inspired the film, also takes on an executive producer role.
Certified as an official co-production by India's National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the British Film Institute (BFI), Lioness promises to be a remarkable cinematic experience that highlights the cultural exchange between India and the UK.
In conjunction with the film's release, English Heritage has planned a special tribute to Princess Sophia. A Blue Plaque will be unveiled at Hampton Court in London on May 26, honoring the memory of this remarkable woman. The London Blue Plaque program aims to commemorate noteworthy individuals and the places they inhabited. The unveiling will be followed by a celebration reception hosted by the Anglo Punjab Heritage Foundation and Babbar Cinema in the palace.
The anticipation surrounding Lioness is palpable, marking a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts of the Indian and British film industries. This groundbreaking film not only sheds light on historical figures but also gives voice to fictional characters whose stories resonate with the present. With a talented cast, dedicated crew, and an intriguing narrative, Lioness is poised to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on cinema.
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