The Legend of Hanuman - 2021

Introduction

Stories based on Indian Mythology have always been a hit among the Indian audience. Shows like Ramayan, Mahabharat, etc., which aired on Doordarshan in the 90s, still have a massive fan base, and they were back on air during the Covid-19 lockdown. So, it is no surprise that The Legend of Hanuman web series is a sweeping success.

Narrating the tale of the Monkey God, Hanuman, from his birth until the epic battle in Srilanka to rescue Goddess Sita, the tale delves deep into the mythology. It brings to life the stories in animatics. Animatics are the technology that lets the actors enact the scene rather than just dub or lend their voice for onscreen animation. The web series is available on Disney + Hotstar and has two seasons so far, with the third season currently under production. 

Table Of Contents

• Details

• Plot Play

• Release Date

• Cast

• Crew

• Character Analysis

• Seasons and Synopsis

• Behind The Scenes

• Reviews

• Conclusion

Details

Plot

Hanuman, the monkey god, is born to Kesari (father) and Añjanā (mother), and the humble vanara is also said to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is also known as Vayuputhra (or the son of Lord Vayu - Air) because he is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the destroyer. 

The Legend of Hanuman follows the journey of the humble vanara who lives a simple life in the forest with his friends. This is because his powers were taken away from him as a young kid, and the prophecy said that he would get his powers back only when he went on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. As evil spreads, casts a dark shadow over mankind, and wrecks havoc in the universe, he emerges as a little hero who saves the world. 

Release

Cast

Crew

• Director - Jeevan J. Kang and Navin John

• Producer- Graphic India

• Cinematographer -Jeevan J. Kang and Navin John

• Music - Kaala Bhairava

• Production House -  Graphic India

• Narrator - Sharad Kelkar

• Created By - Sharad Devarajan, Jeevan J. Kang, and Charuvi Agrawal

Character Analysis

Hanuman

Lord Hanuman is a Hindu god commonly worshipped across India and is often called a monkey god. His physical appearance is distinct, often depicted as a humanoid monkey with strong, muscular arms, a golden chest, and a Vanara tail. He is also often shown wearing a red loincloth and carrying a trident or mace.

Despite his monkey-like form, Lord Hanuman is a being of immense power, capable of incredible feats such as lifting a mountain or flying across the ocean. He is wise and courageous and exemplifies selfless service to others. He is a great devotee of Lord Rama and is loyal and devoted in all his actions. He is also seen as a protector, using his power to help those in need. In addition to his physical characteristics, Lord Hanuman is often said to represent the qualities of strength, courage, wisdom, and devotion.

Lord Rama

Lord Rama is one of the most revered characters in Hindu mythology. He is celebrated as the hero of the Ramayana, an epic poem written by the sage Valmiki. He is also known as Maryada Purushottam, meaning the perfect man who abides by the norms of righteousness. Lord Rama is renowned for his strong character and moral values. He is an ideal son, husband, and ruler who is always just and fair. He is a courageous warrior who always stands up for the weak and oppressed. His acts of selfless service and devotion to duty are an inspiration to all. 

He is also known for his remarkable patience and forbearance in the face of adversity. Despite facing numerous challenges and temptations, he remained true to his convictions and never strayed from the path of righteousness. He is also compassionate and generous and does not hesitate to forgive his enemies. In addition to these qualities, Lord Rama embodies faith and truth. He exemplifies how one should live a life of righteousness and virtue, no matter the circumstances.

Lakshmana

Lord Lakshmana is a prominent figure in Hindu mythology and is the younger brother of Lord Rama. And is known for his unwavering devotion and loyalty to Lord Rama and his exemplary courage in battle. He is depicted as a strong and brave warrior, yet he is also known for his compassion and respect for all living creatures. He is well-versed in the Hindu scriptures and is often referred to as Chiranjeevi, or the immortal one, as he was blessed with a long life. 

Lord Lakshmana is also known for his intelligence and wise counsel. He is highly respected for his kindness, courage, wisdom, and devotion. He is often described as a perfect example of the ideal man who is devoted and loyal to his elder brother and Dharma, the path of righteousness. Throughout his life, he has inspired many, showing how one should live according to the principles of truth, righteousness, and justice.

Sita

Goddess Sita is revered as the epitome of virtue, faithfulness, and purity and is the ideal of womanhood in Indian culture. She is the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Rama. Sita was born from the Earth, and as a child, she was extremely beautiful with a golden complexion, making her the symbol of beauty and purity. She was gentle, kind, and compassionate toward everyone. Sita was also known for her strong will, resilience, and determination. 

Goddess Sita was known for her courage and intelligence. She also taught valuable lessons of humility, selflessness, and forgiveness. She expressed true humility when she asked for the Earth to bear witness to her innocence, and she showed true selflessness when she chose to live her last days on the Earth rather than return with Rama to the kingdom.

Seasons and Synopsis

Season 1 

Season one of the show is about the young Vanara prince who is forbidden to use his superpowers. Things take a turn for the good when the Vanara clan meets Lord Ram. The Vanara king (Sugreev), in exile, then takes the help of Lord Rama to help Sugreev reclaim his rightful throne. Lastly, Lord Hanuman follows the two brothers, Ram and Lakshman,and join the quest to rescue Goddess Sita from Ravana.

Season 2

Season 2 of The Legend of Hanuman explores the journey of the Monkey God, who is on a mission. He has to help Lord Rama in his attempt to rescue Goddess Sita from the demon king Ravana. Season 2 explores his journey to Srilanka and back to India. 

Behind The Scenes

• Disney + Hotstar released interviews of the crew and makers to highlight what went behind the creation of The Legend of Hanuman series.

• According to the video, the creators wanted to narrate the tale of an Indian mythological hero in the most immersive animation experience.

• The show takes pride in being the FIRST animated Hotstar Specials series and the first 3D animated series.

• According to the show creators, the show was always envisioned as multiple episodes and then designed rather than creating it as one big movie and then editing it into episodes. 

Reviews

IMDb rating: 9.1/10 

A must-watch series for people of all age groups. The mythology is retold very engagingly with well-researched and detailed storylines in each episode. The animation is rich, realistic, and breathtaking for an Indian animation film. While most animated movies target younger audiences, The Legend of Hanuman seeks to cover everyone from the age of 8 to 80 and succeeds in doing so. 

Conclusion

Hindu mythology has several engaging tales of Lord Hanuman, from when he was a simple vanara in Sugreva's kingdom to become a great devotee of Lord Rama and then a god himself. The Legend of Hanuman aims to retell all these stories in the most engaging format possible in the coming seasons. If reports are to go by, a third season of this show is in the making, and a release date for the same will be announced soon.