In a time when cinema often chases spectacle over soul, Mahavatar Narsimha has emerged as a shining example of how stories rooted in faith, culture, and history can transcend boundaries. Directed by debutant Ashwin Kumar and written by Jayapurna Das, the film has quietly yet powerfully etched its name in history — becoming India’s highest-grossing animated film.
Released theatrically on 25 July 2025 in both 2D and 3D formats, Mahavatar Narsimha has earned an astounding ₹175 crore worldwide in just 15 days, uniting audiences across communities, languages, and faiths. But behind the numbers lies a story far greater — one of vision, courage, and the belief that India’s mythology deserves to be shared with the world, not as fantasy, but as heartfelt history.
A Story as Old as Time, Yet Timeless
Drawing from revered texts — the Vishnu Purana, Narasimha Purana, and Shrimad Bhagavata Purana — the film retells the ancient legend of Hiranyakashyap, a demon king who declared himself god, and his son Prahlad, whose devotion to Lord Vishnu stood unshaken. To protect Prahlad and uphold cosmic balance, Vishnu takes the awe-inspiring form of Narsimha, the half-man, half-lion avatar, to defeat the forces of evil.
With a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes, the film invites audiences into an immersive experience that goes beyond entertainment. It’s a cinematic prayer — a reminder that faith can protect, restore, and unite. And it speaks not just to Hindus, but to anyone who believes in the power of good over evil, be they Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jew, or of any belief system.
A Dream Forged in Faith and Sacrifice
The making of Mahavatar Narsimha was far from easy. As the first chapter of a planned seven-part Mahavatar Cinematic Universe exploring the ten avatars of Vishnu, it was an ambitious vision that faced scepticism at every turn. Many doubted whether animation could carry the weight of such a sacred story.
Yet, Ashwin Kumar and producer Shalpa Dhawan stood unwavering in their conviction. They invested not only their time and creative energy but also their personal savings — to ensure the film would see the light of day. For them, it was never just about making a movie; it was about fulfilling a responsibility to share India’s mythological treasures with the world.
From Festival Applause to Global Resonance
Before reaching theatres, the film had its first moment of glory on 25 November 2024 at the International Film Festival of India, where it received heartfelt applause for its breathtaking animation and emotional depth. From that stage, it journeyed to cinemas worldwide, carrying with it the essence of Indian storytelling and spirituality.
A Success Meet That Felt Like a Prayer
At the recent success meet in Mumbai, the mood was one of gratitude, not grandeur. The cast, crew, and producers came together not just to mark a financial victory, but to honour the faith that had carried them through every obstacle.
Director Ashwin Kumar shared how the film was born out of a desire to share the stories we have grown up hearing — stories that hold the wisdom of centuries — with the rest of the world. “Faith,” he said, “can truly bring heaven to earth.”
Producer Shalpa Dhawan reflected on the journey as a lesson in unity, describing Mahavatar Narsimha as a film that belongs to everyone, regardless of religion. “If it can remind even one person — Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jew, or anyone — of the oneness at the heart of all faiths, then our purpose is fulfilled.”
The day was more than a celebration of cinema; it was a testament to what can be achieved when vision is guided by devotion. Mahavatar Narsimha is not just a milestone for Indian animation — it is an offering to the world, an invitation to witness a story that restores belief in the divine, in humanity, and in ourselves.
