Taj: Divided by Blood is a dramatic Indian period web series. It brings to life palace intrigue, sibling rivalry, poetry, and betrayal during the Mughal Empire—all set against the lavish and cutthroat world of 16th-century India.
Story & Theme
This series traces the difficult question faced by Emperor Akbar: who among his sons should inherit his throne? Instead of following the rule of birthright, Akbar introduces a test of merit to choose the next ruler. His sons—Salim, Murad, and Daniyal—differ deeply in their personalities and ambitions. As the race for succession heats up, alliances and rivalries emerge, and romance with the legendary Anarkali adds even more tension to this tale of power, poetry, and betrayal.
Cast & Characters
The show brings together a stellar ensemble:
- Naseeruddin Shah plays Emperor Akbar, the man torn between legacy and love.
- Dharmendra portrays Sheikh Salim Chisti, the saintly figure whose prophecy propels the story forward.
- Aashim Gulati stars as Prince Salim (Jahangir), the poetic son caught in a storm of love and ambition.
- Aditi Rao Hydari plays Anarkali, a mysterious and beautiful dancer whose presence ignites passion—and conflict.
- Taha Shah Badussha as Prince Murad, headstrong and power-driven.
- Shubham Kumar Mehra takes on Prince Daniyal, often seen as pure-hearted yet ambitious underneath.
- Other notable actors include Rahul Bose (Mirza Hakim), Zarina Wahab (Salima Sultan Begum), and Sandhya Mridul (Jodha Bai).
Platform & Release
The series is a ZEE5 Original, produced by Contiloe Pictures and released on the ZEE5 OTT platform. Season 1 launched on 3 March 2023, and it consists of 10 episodes.
Due to its popularity, a second season titled Taj: Reign of Revenge followed quickly and premiered on 12 May 2023. This season continues Prince Salim’s story as he seeks to reclaim power and avenge his exile, with new characters like Meherunnisa (later Nur Jahan) entering his life.
What Makes It Stand Out
- Rich Setting and Drama: The show dives into Mughal-era politics, art, architecture, and betrayal, delivering a vivid historical tapestry.
- Strong Performances: Seasoned actors such as Naseeruddin Shah and Dharmendra anchor the show, while newcomers bring fresh energy.
- Ambitious Scope: From romantic intrigue to violent power struggles, the series aims to capture both the grandeur and the chaos of royal family drama.
Final Thoughts
Taj: Divided by Blood is a bold, richly textured period drama—filled with poetic longing and ruthless ambition. With a stellar cast and a story full of emotional conflict and regal spectacle, the series offers a gripping dive into one of Indian history’s most dramatic eras. If you love historical sagas with emotional depth and palace intrigue, this is a must-watch.
And, if you’re curious about how Salim’s ambition evolves or want a frozen-in-time moment with Anarkali, there’s a second season waiting for you on ZEE5.
Brandon is the cheif editor and writer at WorldUnfolds.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen editorial eye, he crafts engaging content that captivates and enlightens readers worldwide.
