In a groundbreaking collaboration, Indian yogi and mystic Sadhguru has teamed up with Graphic India to create “Shiva: The Adiyogi,” an animated feature that delves into the origin story of the Hindu God Shiva as the first yogi. This innovative project aims to present a compelling narrative that intertwines spirituality, mythology, and human emotions.
A Cosmic Story of Love and Loss
Story credits for the film go to Sadhguru and Sharad Devarajan, the co-founder of Graphic India. The studio is renowned for its successful animated mythology franchise, “The Legend of Hanuman.” Devarajan is not only producing but also co-writing and co-creating the film, bringing his extensive experience in animation and storytelling to the project. With a rich narrative landscape, the film journey spans from before creation to the majestic peaks of Kailash, incorporating dramatic elements such as the rage of Veerabhadra, a being forged from grief, and the tales of two women whose fierce devotion keeps Shiva connected to existence.
Spiritual Wisdom and Transformation
“Shiva: The Adiyogi” climaxes at Kanti Sarovar, where Shiva imparts 112 methods for transcending physical existence to seven seekers. Sadhguru articulates the thematic essence of the film: “In the yogic culture, Shiva is not seen as a God. For us, Shiva is the Adiyogi – the first yogi, and the Adiguru – the first guru. For the first time in the history of humanity, Shiva the Adiyogi introduced the idea that the simple laws of nature are not permanent restrictions. If one is willing to strive, one can go beyond all limitations and attain to liberation.” He describes Shiva as the ultimate outlaw, igniting spiritual transformation by breaking the conventional laws of nature.
An Epic Collaborative Effort
Devarajan adds depth to the project’s narrative, stating, “This is the story of how wisdom itself was born, and why it was shared with humanity. As a storyteller, there is no greater canvas, a cosmic love story, a tale of devastating loss, and action on a scale no epic has ever attempted.” He emphasizes the contrasting elements in the storyline, including armies of gods and the tender love story of two women whose connection stirred the infinite. Collaborating with Sadhguru, whose voice embodies the Adiyogi in contemporary discourse, is a significant creative honor for Devarajan.
A Vision Beyond Boundaries
Sadhguru is not just a yogi; he is a bestselling author with a prolific online presence, with videos streamed in 35 languages globally. He founded the Isha Foundation over three decades ago, which has since garnered support from more than 19 million volunteers worldwide.
Devarajan’s previous ventures include the acclaimed “Baahubali” animated series and the co-creation of Indian Spider-Man, Pavitr Prabhakar, featured in the Oscar-nominated film “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.”
Global Release and Production Insights
“Shiva: The Adiyogi” aims to have a worldwide theatrical release, with production led by Graphic India’s animation studio. The project boasts a team of executive producers including Jeevan J. Kang and Subrah S. Iyar, with Navin Miranda and Nayana Bijli serving as co-producers. This ambitious animated epic seeks to captivate audiences by merging ancient mythology with modern storytelling techniques.
