In a self-imposed exile from the kingdom of Magadha, an old man who informs him that even Emperors are 'ordinary' and that his destiny transcends the crown and the throne intrigues Prince Asoka.

2500 years after his death, Asoka the great lives in our memories. He towers over history as a symbol of peace and non-violence: a burning torch that illuminates the path from war to remorse, from ambition to religion, from hatred to love.

The Film...
ASOKA, the film traces the life of the emperor Asoka, grandson of Chandragupta Maurya, who ascended the throne of Magadha in the 3rd century B.C.

To extend the boundaries of his empire, Asoka waged one of the bloodiest wars in the history with the neighboring kingdom of Kalinga, leaving it ravaged and devastated.

Confronted by the aftermath of his conquest, in which thousands lost their lives. Asoka is overcome by remorse. He renounces the path of war and dedicates his life to spreading the light of Buddhism across the world.

ASOKA is a journey, the transformation of a youth from a beloved son to an obsessive romantic. From a man embittered by betrayals to a ruthless warrior consumed by ambition, from a conqueror of lands to a conqueror of self. The ultimate kingdom of Asoka was the hearts of men.

"Whose destiny is greater than that of the Emperor?" ...."The traveler's, when he completes his journey."

The Music...
The one thing that brings a great element of contemporariness to this epic called 'Asoka' is its music and the man who has lived up to the challenge of breathing modernity into this project is none other than the prolific Anu Malik. The tunes bring a zing to your mind just as Gulzar's inimitable metaphors bring a smile to you face.

The album features a wide spectrum of songs from soft ballads to upbeat foot tappers. It showcases the versatile talents of popular singers like Abhijeet, Alka Yagnik, Sunidhi Chauhan, Chitra, Sunita Rao, Hema Sardesai and Shaan. The new kid on the block Sandeep Chowta, who lent so much character to the unforgettable 'Satya', has composed the background score for this film. The score creates a dramatic backdrop for a powerful story-line.

Viewed against some spectacular picturisation by Santosh Sivan, here is a set of songs that will be etched in minds for a long time. They range from soul stirring ballads to foot tapping numbers.

The Track listing...

1. San Sanana - Alka Yagnik, Hema Sardesai (2nd single)
2. Raat Ka Nasha - Chitra
3. Roshni Se - Abhijeet & Alka Yagnik
4. O Re Kanchi - Shaan, Sunita Rao
5. Raat Ka Nasha - Abhijeet, Chitra
6. Aa Taya Hoja - Sunidhi Chauhan
7. Asoka theme - Instrumental

CAST LIST
SHAH RUKH KHAN Asoka
KAREENA KAPOOR Kaurwaki
SURAJ BALAJI Arya
AJIT Susima
DANNY DENZOGPA Virat
RAHUL DEV Bheema
HRISHITA BHATT Devi
SUBHASINI ALI Dharma
GERSON daCUNHA Bindusara
UMESH MEHRA Chandragupta Maurya

PRODUCERS

SHAH RUKH KHAN
Shah Rukh Khan is among the few actors who have managed to combine mass appeal with an artist's passion for creativity and experimentation. An intense performer, Shah Rukh Khan today rules the world's biggest film industry with his visceral performances ranging from a love-obsessed fanatic to a quintessential romantic hero. His "Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayange' recently became the longest running Hindi film ever. Shah Rukh's passion for cinema is not restricted to acting alone. He understands the true potential of cinematic medium and it's importance in shaping reality. Armed with this belief, Shah Rukh is already an active catalyst in the growth of the Indian Film Industry. A versatile actor, a mega star, an astute businessman, a visionary - Shah Rukh Khan dares to dream... Unlimited!

JUHI CHAWLA
Former Miss India, Juhi Chawla is one of the India's most adored actresses. Her debut film, 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak', brought back the trend of gossamer romance to the Indian screen. Since then, she has gone from strength to strength enthralling the audience with her spunky performances. She has the perennial Indian girl-next-door image, which has endured over the years. Juhi's objective to be an active participant in movie making is manifest from her recent foray into production. She has balanced her effervescent on-screen persona by leading her special involvement in every aspect of film production and planning.

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