'Ravana' to be among India's 1st student-led theatrical feature
What's the story
Reliance Animation Academy and Tenali Rama Animation are backing a unique project, Ravana - The Lost Battle with Shri Ram, reported Variety. This ambitious project stands among India's first student-led theatrical feature films, developed through a collaboration between academia and the film industry. The film will explore the character of Ravana from the Hindu epic Ramayana, aiming to provide a nuanced interpretation of this pivotal figure in Indian mythology.
Production details
Film to be released in summer 2027
The film will be produced using a hybrid of AI and 3D animation, with selected students from the Reliance Animation Academy participating in the production process under expert guidance. The Film and Television Institute of India will serve as an academic and creative mentor, conducting a five-to-seven-day workshop as part of this collaboration. The film is targeted for a theatrical release in summer 2027, followed by television and streaming releases.
Educational impact
Students will learn through practical experience
Tejonidhi Vidyasagar Bhandare, CEO of Reliance Animation and the brain behind this initiative, said, "Instead of learning only through classroom assignments, students will participate in the creation of a real feature film." He added, "Ravana- The Lost Battle with Shri Ram is an opportunity to combine storytelling, technology, and education." Shibasish Sarkar, Group CEO of Reliance Entertainment, said the project underscores India's growing potential to become a global hub for high-quality hybrid animation and storytelling.
Global reach
Reliance Animation has produced several successful projects
The production team is aiming to reach audiences in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the global Indian diaspora. Students involved in the project are expected to graduate with professional production credits. The film is a direct adaptation of the Srimad Valmiki Ramayana, a revered text in Hinduism. Reliance Animation Studios has previously produced popular projects like Little Krishna, Krishna aur Kans, Golmaal Jr., and Smashing Simmba in collaboration with filmmaker Rohit Shetty.