Hanuman to assume another dimension

Close on the heels of the release of Return of Hanuman, its first two-dimensional (2D) animated feature film, Thiruvananthapuram-based Toonz Animation India has firmed up plans for a sequel, which, in all likelihood, will be a 3D flick.

According to P Jayakumar, CEO, Toonz Animation India, "Toonz and Percept Picture Company will soon join hands again to produce Hanuman 3, which, tentatively, would be a 3D feature film."

The 90-minute 2D sequel is a co-production between Toonz Animation and Percept Picture.

"The quality of the film would set a benchmark in the domestic animation industry," Jayakumar said. The movie has been released throughout India in 370 theatres.

Return of Hanuman has been written and directed by Bollywood director Anurag Kashyap.

The story revolves around the rebirth of mythical hero Hanuman as young Maruti, on whose shoulders lay humankind's fate. The plot has been conceived keeping in mind contemporary times.

"We felt that Indian mythology has lots of values to deliver in today's world. We need to teach our younger generation the importance of our traditions," Jayakumar said.

The film brings along with it a major branding initiative, including tie-ups for gaming and merchandising.

Apart from companies such as Pantaloon and Big Bazaar for brand building, Toonz and Percept have roped in Jump Games for mobile gaming, Future Group for toys, D'damas for jewellery, and Junior Diamond for comics.

The current version available in Hindi was to be dubbed in several other Indian languages, too, Toonz officials said.

Toonz is part of the Comcraft Group, a Geneva-based international business conglomerate.