JANUARY 15- Mahavatar Narasimha, a stereoscopic 3D film by Ashwin Kumar based on Lord Narasimha, is set for global release in the summer of 2025, with an official trailer released today. Recognized for its historical significance in Indian animation, the film was selected as one of the top five Hindi films at the 55th International Film Festival of India. Distributed by Hombale Films, it will be released in five Indian and several international languages.

In a recent interview with ISKCON News, Ashwin Kumar shared the journey that inspired him to make this film. While pursuing a career in art, VFX, and animation in Mumbai, in 2007, Ashwin attended a lecture at ISKCON Chowpatty, sparking his interest in spirituality. His involvement with ISKCON BACE and discussions on the Srimad Bhagavatam, particularly the pastimes of Lord Narasimha and Prahlad Maharaj, inspired him to explore the idea of creating an animated film. Reflecting on this, he shared, “As I began to understand the mission of my life, I realized how Srila Prabhupada had emphasized in his lectures and letters that animation and filmmaking should be used to glorify the Lord.”

To authentically portray the story of Lord Narasimha, Ashwin Kumar conducted extensive research, drawing details from texts such as the Srimad Bhagavatam (Cantos Two, Three, and Seven), the Vishnu Purana, Narasimha Purana, Varaha Purana, Linga Purana, Shiva Purana, and Guru Granth Sahib.

“Lord Sri Narasimha’s blessings have been our strength and inspiration, and we hope that our film will be a worthy tribute to His and Prahalad Maharaj’s glory. We are humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve Lord Narsimha through this film,” he said. The filmmaker added, “The Lord’s divine presence has been felt throughout our journey.”

Additionally, he delved into cultural traditions like Holika Dahan, local festivals such as Jagar in Himachal Pradesh, and the Lord’s historical significance in Jagannath Puri. “In southern India, where Lord Narasimha is worshiped as the Ishta-dev, His influence extends to names and traditions, including Tirupati Balaji’s connection to Him,” noted Ashwin. Finally, his research took him to Ahobilam, the sacred place of Lord Narasimha, and he studied lion archetypes in cultures like Greek, Chinese, and Japanese traditions, where lions hold symbolic importance.

Ashwin expressed the importance of bringing such a story to the forefront, particularly for those in darkness who need a reaffirmation of their faith. He conveyed that the film’s central message is to hold on to one’s faith amidst worldly distractions and trials. “When faith is tested, it shines through, helping individuals overcome challenges and remain steadfast in their devotion,” Ashwin exclaimed.

With the caption “When faith is challenged, He appears!” the film emphasizes the contemporary relevance of the story of Hiranyakashipu and Prahlad Maharaj. He pointed out that it is also a powerful father-son confrontation that reflects the clash of ideologies prevalent in today’s divided society, noting that the narrative resonates with both the devotee community, struggling with their Krishna consciousness, and the non-devotee community, facing challenges in pursuing their dreams. 

Reflecting on the impact of the process of making the film, Ashwin shared, “Srila Prabhupada has said that art is a window to the spirit world. We have to become mediums. When I embarked on this project, I decided to depend more on the shastras than mere concoctions. Srila Prabhupada, the Lord, and Srimati Radharani blessed me with visions, which I sketched and gave to my studio artists for production. This entire process—of cleansing, meditating, and creating—transformed me.” 

Mahavatar Narasimha is the first installment in the Mahavatar series. Ashwin and his team, in collaboration with Hombale Films, will create a diverse range of projects, including digital comics, OTT series, live-action films, animated films, and games. “This ambitious vision for the Mahavatar universe will require significant talent, investment, and time, but it is our life’s calling. With the mercy of our Lord, we aim to restore the stories, lilas, and glories of the Lord for future generations.”

The Grand Wing opening of the Sri Narasimha Dev Temple at TOVP was a momentous occasion. It included a special teaser of the movie, which was met with thunderous applause and cheers. Fans and devotees alike praised the film’s stunning visuals and captivating storyline. “It was an honor to showcase our teaser at this sacred temple, and we’re thrilled with the overwhelming response,” said Ashwin.

A special preview of the film was held for senior ISKCON delegates and devotees, graced by the presence of Jayapataka Swami, Radhanath Swami, and others who were deeply moved and offered their blessings on the project. Private screenings were later organized at Ashwin Kumar’s residence for Indradyumna Swami, Bhaktimarga Swami, Guru Prasad Swami, and Bhakti Vijnana Swami, all of whom bestowed their blessings on the endeavor.

Ashwin was also invited to the prestigious Museum of Sacred Arts for a special preview of his movie. The event was a resounding success, with audiences of all ages left mesmerized by the film’s magic. The success of this special preview has generated significant buzz around the movie, with fans and critics eagerly anticipating its official release.

Ashwin highlighted the spiritual environment cultivated at his studio, Kleem Productions, where deities and the Bhagavad-gita inspire the team. He expressed profound gratitude to his wife, Shilpaa Dhawan, the producer and backbone of the project, acknowledging her instrumental role in securing funds, assembling a talented team, and providing unwavering support throughout. 

Ashwin shared, “The right people appeared at the right time. We recruited talented artists, treating them as warriors on a mission to create something unprecedented. My wife’s tireless efforts, keen insight, and dedication have been invaluable to the film’s success. I am forever grateful for her love, encouragement, and partnership in bringing this cinematic vision to life. I also thank my parents and in-laws, Namamrita Mataji and Keshav Prabhuji. Their faith in me and my team has been a constant source of motivation. Their financial backing played a crucial role in transforming the vision into a reality.”

Ashwin Kumar expressed that he owes a spiritual debt to Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and devotees, namely Kishori Dasi, Vaiyasaki Das, Gauranga Das, Braj Vilas Das, and Anuttama Dasa, for their invaluable guidance and support during challenging times. Their wisdom, compassion, and spiritual insight provided strength and inspiration, while their selfless contributions became a blessing to the project, leaving a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.

Ashwin Kumar concluded, “This is more than a film—it’s a movement! Share its message far and wide, and let your voice resound in support by watching it in theaters.  Together, we can show the world that grand devotion-based cinema isn’t just wanted—it’s needed. Your presence, your belief, and your collective voice will pave the way for more such epics to come alive. Bring your family and friends. Let’s make history together, showing the world the power of Srila Prabhupada’s teachings. It is time to awaken every soul! Jai Sri Narsimhadev!”

Stay tuned for more updates on Mahavatar Narasimha, and get ready to experience the magic of this unforgettable cinematic journey. Readers can now watch the official teaser of the film here. To learn more about the film, visit their website and follow them on Instagram.