The streaming platform Disney + Hotstar has released the first trailer of its magnum opus series ‘The Empire’, which is one of the grandest shows ever created in India.

The eight-episode series is based on Alex Rutherford’s bestselling ‘Empire of the Moghuls’ novels, a racy, fictionalized version of the history of the Moghul empire, which dominated South Asia from 1526 to 1720.

The two-and-a-half minute-long trailer opens with Kunal Kapoor’s powerful dialogue as the Mughal emperor Babur, “Zindagi maut se kitna hi ladle, jeet toh aakir maut ki hi hoti hai,” foreshadowing the theme of battle, blood, loss, and sacrifice.

According to ANI, the scenes exploring the grandeur and the complex dynamics of Samarkhand, the trailer also unveils Babur’s past as a young, 14-year-old-emperor, fighting for his legacy. Kunal’s character emerges not just fierce and strong, but also emotionally complex, questioning his destiny and identity.

Intense, dark hues and lighting give an ominous mood to the trailer, complimenting the enthralling dialogues, drama, and powerful performances by all the actors.

The trailer highlights the role of actor Drashti Dhami as Babur’s sister Khanzada Begum, a warrior princess often forgotten, who has made many sacrifices for the protection of the people and her family, especially from Babur’s enemy Shaibhani Khan, brilliantly essayed by Dino Morea

One cannot forget the aura of Esan Daulat, Babur’s grandmother played by veteran actor Shabana Azmi, who carries royalty like second nature.

The trailer then takes a turn towards Babur surrendering Samarkhand to Shaibhani Khan and moves towards another battle, boldly announced by him- defeating Lodhi’s Sultanate across river Sindhu.

The trailer ends with action-packed battle scenes of valor and violence showing huge armies attacking each other, with bloodshed and cries all around, leaving the audience at the edge of their seats.

‘The Empire’ is created by Nikhil Advani and co-directed by Mitakshara Kumar, and produced by Monisha Advani and Madhu Bhojwani.

The show will start streaming on Disney + Hotstar from August 27, 2021.