BOMBAY TIMES (January 23, 2017)

Celebrated Iranian film maker Majid Majidi's next film, titled Beyond The Cloud, that dwells on the adoration of love and life, starts rolling today in Mumbai. Produced by Zee Studios and Eyecandy Films, the film dwells on nuanced human relationships, an area that Majid specialises in. It will be shot at numerous locations in India with Indian actors.

Says Majid, “Filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, whose work I adore, have represented India's culture, rich heritage and the lives of common people to a global audience. These visions and images have stayed in my mind for years and cajoled me to make a film in India. Finally, I'm in Mumbai with a lovely team to narrate a story woven around the lives of common people.“

Akash Chawla, Business Head, Zee Studios, adds, “It's our pleasure to associate with a global icon like Majid Majidi. Over the years, he has narrated stories with authenticity and honesty that Zee also aligns itself with while serving content to its audience globally. This film, his first venture in the country, celebrates an India unseen by the world with a heartwarming story.“

Shareen Mantri Kedia and Kishor Arora from Eyecandy Films, elaborate, “Words can't describe the genius that is Majid. His vision and artistry are unparalleled. As fans, we have been spellbound by his narratives. It's an honour to bring him to India. Working with him and developing this project over the last few years has been an enriching experience.“
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Shahid Kapoor's younger brother is all set to make his acting debut with the renowned Iranian filmmaker's next, which will be shot in Mumbai and Jaipur
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 23, 2017)

Mirror (August 18) was the first to report that acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi was in Mumbai last August to prep for his next, a heart-warming brother-sister story. The news fuelled speculations that Neelima Azeem and Rajesh Khattar's son and Shahid Kapoor's step brother, Ishaan Khatter, has been approached for the film amidst reports that the youngster was poised to debut with either Karan Johar's Student of The Year 2 or the Hindi remake of Nagraj Manjule's Sairat. Mirror has now learnt that Ishaan has finally been zeroed down to play the brother's part in the international film and will start shooting from today in South Mumbai. Initially rumoured to be titled Floating Gardens, the project is called Beyond the Clouds.

“He is a superb actor, was amazing in his look test and suits the character Mr Majidi was looking for. Ishaan will play someone deeply connected to the ground and to the city,“ confirms Shareen Mantri Kedia who is producing the film. The film will be shot across Mumbai and in Jaipur. The acclaimed Iranian writer-producer-director known for films like Baran, The Song of Sparrows, Muhammad: The Messenger of God and the Oscar-nominated Children of Heaven, had met the casting director, Honey Trehan, during his August trip. Honey was subsequently given the task of scouting for at least eight-10 actors from across India to play principal characters in the human-drama.

Meanwhile, it had emerged that Deepika Padukone had done a look test for the female lead after pictures of her in a de-glam avatar with Majidi surfaced last year. While an actress is yet to be locked for said part, Ishaan will roll with the film today.