Pune / Mumbai. April 2, 2026 : Reliance Animation Academy, an education arm of Reliance Animation Studios, in collaboration with Tenali Rama Animation and strategic business partners, has announced the development of an ambitious feature film titled “Ravana – The Lost Battle with Shri Ram.” The project will be produced through a pioneering student-led production model, offering animation students the rare opportunity to work on a real theatrical film as part of their learning journey.Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) is the key academic and creative mentor for the project. The film is targeted for Summer 2027 release and following its theatrical release, slated for Summer 2027, the film is expected to expand to television and digital streaming platforms.
The film aims to present a powerful interpretation of one of Indian epic’s most complex characters, Ravana, using a Hybrid AI + 3D animation production pipeline that combines modern technology with rich storytelling.
This initiative represents a unique collaboration between education and industry, where students will receive hands-on production experience while contributing to the creation of a feature-length feature film.
The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) will partner on the project as a distinguished academic mentor, playing a pivotal role in shaping the students’ creative journey. As a culmination of this learning experience, FTII will conduct an intensive 5–7 day immersive workshop designed to bridge the gap between academic training and the practical realities of filmmaking. This workshop will act as a critical enabler, equipping students with the skills, perspective, and confidence required to transition into the film and animation industry.
Tejonidhi Vidyasagar Bhandare, CEO,Reliance Animation, who conceptualised and spearheads this first-of-its-kind initiative, said:
“This project represents a new model for animation education in India. Instead of learning only through classroom assignments, students will participate in the creation of a real feature film.
‘Ravana– The Lost Battle with Shri Ram’ is an opportunity to combine storytelling, technology, and education in a way that prepares students for the global animation industry while bringing Indian mythology to life for modern audiences.”
A First-of-Its-Kind Industry–Education Collaboration
The project brings together a collaborative ecosystem designed to bridge the gap between animation education and professional production.
● Reliance Animation Studios – Producer
● Tenali Rama Animation – Co-producer
● Business Partners and Investors – Strategic Co-Producers(Select Franchisee Partners of Reliance Animation Academy)
Through this partnership, students will gain exposure to real-world production workflows, including storyboarding, character design, animation production, and post-production processes.
Shibasish Sarkar, Group CEO, Reliance Entertainment, said:
“At Reliance Entertainment, we strongly believe in nurturing future-ready creative talent while building globally competitive content from India. This initiative is a powerful example of how education and industry can come together to create meaningful opportunities. A student-led theatrical film like ‘Ravana – The Lost Battle with Shri Ram’ not only pushes the boundaries of learning but also reinforces India’s potential to emerge as a global hub for high-quality hybrid animation models and storytelling.”
Empowering the Next Generation of Animation Talent
Selected students from Reliance Animation Academy will have the opportunity to contribute directly to various stages of the film’s production while working under the mentorship of experienced industry professionals.
This “learn by creating” model will allow students to graduate with real production credits and hands-on experience, setting a new benchmark for animation education in India.
Ms. Radha Radhakrishnan, Co-founder & CEO, Tenali Rama Animation, said:
“Indian epics hold an extraordinary wealth of powerful stories and narratives that deserve to reach younger audiences through world-class animation and newer formats like AI. With Ravana: The Lost Battle with Shri Ram, we aim to deliver a visually rich and compelling cinematic experience rooted in Srimad Valmiki Ramayana. Our collaboration with Reliance Animation Academy reflects a larger commitmentto mentor emerging animation talent and strengthen a meaningful creative ecosystem for the future.”
Production Vision
The project aims to create a global Indian Epic cinematic experience, bringing Indian storytelling to audiences across theatrical, television, and OTT platforms worldwide.
With the growing international interest in Indian epic and puranas-driven content, the film also seeks to tap into markets across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and global Indian diaspora audiences.
About Reliance Animation Studios
Reliance Animation is a key player in the entertainment sector of Reliance Group, headquartered in Mumbai, India. The studio is involved in various industry segments, including IP production, digital platforms, gaming, and music, contributing significantly to the animation and entertainment landscape in the region.Established in the year 2005 as an IP Company, Reliance Animation is a Pune based state-of-the-art studio creating next- gen animation content. It began its journey with Little Krishna TV Series and went on to create Krishna aur Kans (Theatrical Film), Shaktimaan TV Series, BIG Bees Nursery Rhymes and DaVincibles TV Series (Co-production with Moonscoop US). Post that, Reliance Animation is associated with noted Film-maker Rohit Shetty to produce path-breaking animation shows like Little Singham, Golmaal Jr. and Smashing Simmba.
About Reliance Animation Academy
Reliance Animation Academy, a part of Reliance Animation Studios is a leading institute in India offering career-focused programs in Animation, VFX, Gaming, Graphics, and Film Making. With a strong network of training centers, the academy is committed to developing industry-ready creative professionals through hands-on learning and expert mentorship. Its curriculum integrates the latest technologies, including AI and real-time production workflows, ensuring students are aligned with current industry demands. The academy continues to play a key role in shaping talent for the rapidly growing AVGC sector
About Tenali Rama Animation
Bengaluru-based Tenalirama Animation Private Limited, a company incubated at IIMB-NSRCEL, Bengaluru, aspires to be India's leading creators of Bharat's Epic universe, adopting a multiform storytelling tool and techniques. These unique stories are rooted in Ishaasa and Purana. From animation to books, gaming to immersive experiences, the company is crafting stories that bridge the ancient and the avant-garde.
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