Rajesh Mapuskar, an Indian National Film Award-winning director, has been onboarded to direct "Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal," one of India’s first AI-generated theatrical films. Scheduled for worldwide release on Hanuman Jayanti 2026, the film blends cutting-edge AI technology with cultural storytelling, spearheading a new era in filmmaking.
The revolutionary AI-driven film "Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal" has appointed Rajesh Mapuskar, renowned for his award-winning works, as director. Marking a first in India, this feature film employs generative AI technology to retell the epic tale of Lord Hanuman, a revered figure in Hindu mythology.
Produced by Vikramhotra Abundantia Entertainment in collaboration with Collective Media Network’s Historyverse, the film aims for a global theatrical release on Hanuman Jayanti 2026. The collaboration brings together over 50 engineers from Galler5—the tech arm of Collective Artists Network—working closely with cultural scholars, literary experts, and writers to maintain historical and mythological authenticity.
Rajesh Mapuskar, known for his association with hits like "Munna Bhai MBBS" and "3 Idiots" under Rajkumar Hirani, expressed excitement about directing a story that intertwines spiritual depth with pioneering film technology. He described the project as a rare opportunity to honor the spiritual legacy while innovating with AI-driven storytelling.
Executives lauded Mapuskar’s cinematic sensitivity and curiosity to explore new paradigms, underscoring their confidence in him to helm this disruptive yet culturally significant project. Vikram Malhotra, CEO of Abundantia Entertainment, praised his emotional connection with audiences and his leadership in navigating this new creative frontier.
Key Highlights:
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"Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal" is India’s pioneering AI-generated theatrical film, integrating generative AI across scripting, visuals, and music.
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Rajesh Mapuskar, a celebrated director with National Film Awards, leads the project, bringing expertise and sensitivity.
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The film focuses on the mythological hero Lord Hanuman, aiming to blend traditional storytelling with modern technology.
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A team of 50+ engineers collaborates alongside cultural scholars and writers for authentic narrative representation.
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Scheduled for release on Hanuman Jayanti 2026, it targets a global launch.
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Executives highlight the fusion of spiritual depth and technological innovation as key to the film’s vision.
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The project exemplifies AI’s evolving role in filmmaking while raising discussions on creativity and cultural preservation.
This initiative marks a bold experiment at the convergence of culture, spirituality, and AI technology, heralding a new chapter in India’s cinematic landscape.
Sources: Variety, Amar Ujala, Think Ahead With AI Newsletter