Mahavtar Narismha's success emerges the new MCU: Mythological Cinematic Universe

A still from ‘Mahavatar Narsimha’

At a time when many star-led films have underperformed in theatres, July saw an unusual box-office winner - Mahavatar Narsimha. Director Ashwin Kumar's mythological animation drama crossed the Rs 100 crore mark, a first for an Indian animation film, within 12 days of its July 25 release. So, what about the movie - which tells the story of how Lord Vishnu takes the form of Narsimha to kill the demon king Hiranyakashipu - attracted the audience? Producer Chaluve Gowda points to its timeless narrative and visual scale. "Ashwin Kumar has brought a rare blend of scale, emotional depth, and technical brilliance to the film," he says.

The mythological drama was made over four years. Gowda shares, "Ashwin of Kleem Productions led a team of artistes, animators, and technicians. From character design to action choreography, every detail was approached with the same seriousness as a live-action spectacle."

Be it Hombale Films' big-budget actioners like the KGF franchise and Kantara (2022), or an animation film, Gowda says the guiding principle remains the same. "Our philosophy is to tell Indian stories with a global appeal. We look for stories that are rooted in our culture, but can engage audiences anywhere in the world."

Rs 186 cr
Estimated domestic collection of ‘Mahavatar Narsimha'

Looking ahead

Chaluve Gowda

The banner is already working on the next chapter in its mythological cinematic universe - ‘Mahavatar Parshuram'. "It will explore themes of penance, justice, and human complexity," says Gowda of the film that is expected to release in 2027.