Collective Media Network’s Historyverse has unveiled the first trailer for its AI-driven adaptation of the “Mahabharata,” offering audiences a first look at a modern retelling of the famed Indian epic through cutting-edge technology.
The series, titled “Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh,” emphasizes the blend of age-old storytelling with today’s technological advancements. Collaborative efforts from Collective Artists Network’s Galleri5 studio utilized AI to develop the world of the epic and portray its iconic dilemmas and moral inquiries.
The distinguished text, chronicling an intense familial conflict while delving into deep philosophical and spiritual themes, has seen numerous film and television adaptations, such as a beloved version on India’s Doordarshan channel and a renowned theatrical interpretation by Peter Brook, which was recently restored. Additionally, an animated retelling is set to debut on Netflix soon.
“For many of us, watching the ‘Mahabharat’ on TV was an unforgettable part of our childhood. Those Sunday mornings were special,” remarked Vijay Subramaniam, founder and group CEO of Collective Artists Network. “With our AI-enhanced version of the ‘Mahabharat,’ we aimed to recreate that nostalgia while giving it a fresh and contemporary touch. The trailer offers just a glimpse of what’s in store. It’s emotionally charged, monumental, and crafted with careful attention. We’ve endeavored to preserve the essence that makes the tale timeless while allowing technology to expand the storytelling possibilities.”
This initiative brings together Collective’s Historyverse division and Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcasting service, marking an extraordinary collaboration between traditional media frameworks and innovative production techniques.
Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, expressed: “At Prasar Bharati, we have consistently championed storytelling that unites communities. The AI-enhanced ‘Mahabharat’ exemplifies how heritage and technology can coexist harmoniously. It’s thrilling to witness such a legendary tale being reimagined for the digital era while remaining steadfast to its origins. This represents the kind of innovation that ensures our cultural heritage endures for future generations.”
The production serves as a pilot project for India’s digital content production capabilities, in alignment with governmental initiatives to promote local technological advancements.
The series will be distributed across two platforms, each offering different formats. WAVES OTT will launch the series on Oct. 25, featuring short episodes of 3-4 minutes each, culminating in around 600 segments.
Meanwhile, Doordarshan will present longer episodes, each 22 minutes, starting Nov. 2, airing on Sundays at 11 AM, with an estimated 250 episodes scheduled.
WAVES, operating as Prasar Bharati’s streaming arm, has cultivated a viewership through family-oriented programming in various Indian languages and is now broadening its international footprint.
Watch the trailer here:
