‘Mahabharata’ Gets Netflix India Animated Treatment With Epic Series ‘Kurukshetra’

Netflix India is venturing into animated mythology with “Kurukshetra,” a new series drawing from the ancient Indian epic the “Mahabharata.”

The series will focus on the climactic 18-day battle, examining the conflict through the viewpoints of 18 central warriors as they grapple with moral dilemmas and personal conflicts in a fratricidal war. Netflix plans to release the show in two installments of nine episodes each.

The project marks a significant investment by the streamer in Indian storytelling traditions. Anu Sikka serves as creator and conceptualizer, with the series produced under the Tipping Point banner by Sikka alongside Alok Jain and Ajit Andhare. Ujaan Ganguly handles writing and directing duties.

The production has enlisted Oscar-winning poet and lyricist Gulzar to craft lyrics for the series, bringing his renowned literary voice to the animated adaptation.

“Kurukshetra is the first mythological anime from Netflix India and a truly novel take on the ‘Mahabharata,'” said Tanya Bami, series head, Netflix India. “It brings together everything that we look for in great storytelling. The ‘Mahabharata’ has always been more than an epic; it’s a mirror to our choices and dilemmas, as relevant today as it was centuries ago. With its distinctive storytelling lens, layered characters, and a moving background score, this series reimagines a story we’ve all grown up with in a way that speaks to today’s generation.”

Creator Sikka added: “The battle of Kurukshetra is unforgettable and timeless — it is a collision of duty, destiny, and moral choices. Through this animated series, we explore the 18 days of Kurukshetra with its distinct perspectives blending eternally timeless wisdom with the power of visual storytelling. We’re honored to bring this layered narrative to life on Netflix, making this epic story accessible to Indian and global audiences in a visually stunning rich new format.”

“Kurukshetra” launches Oct. 10 on Netflix.