New Delhi: Indian animation is moving beyond children’s entertainment. Mythology, established franchises and new filmmaking techniques are shaping a slate of theatrical releases centred on Parshuram, Goddess Durga, Shiva and Lord Hanuman. The Baahubali universe is also set to expand through animation.
The five films are scheduled to reach cinemas between 2026 and 2027. Their makers are taking different routes, from a Made-in-AI, Made-in-India production to collaborations with international animation studios. Several of the films are also planned for worldwide or international releases.
Mahavatar Parshuram is among the 5 animated epics set to release in 2026-27. After Mahavatar Narsimha, Hombale Films and Kleem Productions are expanding the Mahavatar Cinematic Universe with Mahavatar Parshuram. Directed by Ashwin Kumar, the animated mythological action film follows Parshuram, the warrior avatar of Vishnu, as he battles rulers who have strayed from dharma. It is scheduled for release in December 2027.
Maha Devi Adishakti – The Legend of Maa Durga is directed by Milind Nandanwar and written by Akshat Gupta, bringing the stories of Goddess Durga and her various forms to the big screen. It includes the stories of Mahishasuramardini and Goddess Kali. Gaurav Malhotra is producing the film under Artha Entertainment and Animation. It is set for a worldwide theatrical release in February 2027.
Baahubali: The Eternal War – Part 1 sees the Baahubali universe getting an animated expansion with a two-part epic directed by Ishan Shukla. The story places Amarendra Baahubali in a new setting involving an eternal conflict between gods and demons across 14 realms. The film features voice performances by actors including Prabhas and Ramya Krishnan. Arka Mediaworks is collaborating with international animation studios on the project, which is expected to arrive in 2027.
Shiva: The Adiyogi is being developed by Graphic India, the studio behind The Legend of Hanuman, alongside Sadhguru. The film explores Shiva as Adiyogi, the first yogi and guru, and traces the origins of yoga. Its story travels from the period before creation to Mount Kailash. Sharad Devarajan is the producer, co-creator and writer, while Sadhguru is contributing the story. A worldwide theatrical release is planned for 2027.
Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal is directed by National Award winner Rajesh Mapuskar, bringing Lord Hanuman to the big screen through a Made-in-AI, Made-in-India approach. The film draws inspiration from the Ramayana and Puranic literature. Abundantia Entertainment is producing the film in association with Collective Media Network’s Historyverse division. Its theatrical release is expected later in 2026, followed by a planned multilingual international rollout.