Indonesian Islamic Drama ‘Promised Hearts’ Premieres on Eid al Fitr

What is love, and how do we truly love someone? Premiering today, the Indonesian film Promised Hearts seeks to answer this question. Adapted from the best-selling novel by Habiburrahman El Shirazy, the film offers a heartfelt exploration of sincere and genuine love from an Islamic perspective.

Produced by Manoj Punjabi, CEO of MD Entertainment and a widely respected figure in Indonesian cinema, the film is directed by Anggy Umbara with a script by Oka Aurora. Promised Hearts tells the story of Niyala, a young woman from an economically disadvantaged family in a remote area, who achieves her dream of becoming a doctor. However, not long after graduation, she is forced to enter an arranged marriage with a wealthy family to help pay off her family’s debts. At the same time, a childhood friend she secretly loves is about to marry someone else.

Starring Beby Tsabina, Deva Mahenra, and Caitlin Halderman, the film marks Netflix's first collaboration with MD Entertainment, making it the perfect companion for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr 1446 H. The cast also includes Alya Rohali, Dito Darmawan, Imran Ismail, and Kiki Narendra, with the soundtrack “Bernaung” by singer Feby Putri. 

Director Sutradara Anggy Umbara shares, “I said ‘yes’ immediately to the project as it is an honor for me. I vowed to give my best from the very beginning, starting with the story and production value to the location; everything was done with the highest intentions. The movie tells a heartwarming and very meaningful Islamic love story, and it’s important to share these important values with the public.”

Discussing his passion for the project, Deva Mahenra says, “I was so excited about the project that I persisted in getting the role of Faiq. I grew up in the shadow of the success of Ayat-ayat Cinta, which made me familiar with the names of Habiburrahman El Shirazy, MD Pictures, Manoj Punjabi, and who wouldn't want to work with these big names... It would be a big loss to miss the opportunity to collaborate with these amazing creators.”

Beby Tsabina reflects on her role, sharing, “I feel honored to play the character of Niyala, and it’s given me the opportunity to learn more about the sincerity of loving someone. I delved into what Niyala goes through in every single thing she experiences, and although it could be difficult, it was really beautiful, and I truly learned a lot.”

Will Niyala eventually get the answer to her prayers, or will she have to let go of her wish? Promised Hearts premieres on March 31, only on Netflix.

About Promised Hearts Director: Anggy Umbara Screenwriter: Oka Aurora Based on a novel by: Habiburrahman El Shirazy Producer: Manoj Punjabi Cast: Beby Tsabina, Deva Mahenra, Caitlin Halderman, Alya Rohali, Dito Darmawan, Imran Ismail, dan Kiki Narendra Theme song: “Bernaung” oleh Feby Putri Streaming date: March 31, 2025