Lord Hanuman to be reborn in ''Kalyug''

Mumbai, Mar 31 (UNI) Lord Hanuman will now be reborn in ''Kalyug'' and inculcate good values and light the flame of self-confidence in modern-day children.

This is the concept on which is based the sequel to last year's runaway animation hit ''Hanuman'' directed by V G Samant and produced by Percept Picture Company. In this film, Hanuman will solve the problems of today's children.

''Hanuman 2'' will be a Rs 15 crore project and released during the festival season next year, Percept Picture Company COO Mahesh Ramanathan said at a press conference here today.

Mr Ramanathan said ''Hanuman'' earned total revenue of Rs 15 crore, much more than the earnings of Bollywood films like ''Kyun Ki'', ''Neal n Niki'', ''Choclate'', and ''Ek Ajnabee'' put together. He lamented that yet there is no recognition for outstanding work in animation and hoped that ''Hanuman'' will change the face of Indian animation in years to come.

He said the sequel to ''Hanuman'' is produced by Percept Picture Company in joint venture with Toonz Animation. A massive marketing strategy has been planned and the merchandise of the film will release much before the film hits the screens, he added.

Mr Samant said the scripting of the film is yet in its final stages and refused to divulge details of the story on how exactly will Lord Hanuman enter ''Kalyug''.

Mr Jaya kumar, CEO of Toonz Animation which has been a major provider of animation to top US and European producers, said animation industry was a USD 70 billion industry in the USA, and India had to work hard on local content to survive in the long run.

''We hope to make 'Hanuman 2' into a top quality international production which will make cinematic history,'' he added.

Mr Ramanathan said belying the myth that there is no market for animation films in India, 'Hanuman' has proved one of the most successful stints of its genre. Looking at the fabulous response the film got from the audience, Percept Picture Company plans to make its base in the potential market of children's film and animation films strong.

UNI MR MAZ SHB HT1935