Film producer faces criticism from director Anurag Kashyap over the creation of AI-generated movie 'Chiranjeevi Hanuman'
In the world of Indian cinema, a heated debate is unfolding over the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in storytelling, with the upcoming film "Chiranjeevi Hanuman - The Eternal" at the centre of the storm.
Produced by Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network's Historyverse, "Chiranjeevi Hanuman - The Eternal" is set to be India's first "Made-in-AI" theatrical release, scheduled for release on Hanuman Jayanti in 2026. The film, which is being promoted as a landmark project pushing the boundaries of AI integration in Indian film, has sparked a polarizing debate about AI's place in cinema.
Anurag Kashyap, a renowned filmmaker, has strongly criticised Vijay Subramaniam, the producer of "Chiranjeevi Hanuman - The Eternal" and the head of the Collective Artists Network (CAN), an agency representing writers, directors, and artists. Kashyap accused Subramaniam of undermining creators' interests and prioritizing profit over artistic integrity, suggesting that artists should question or even leave such agencies that embrace AI over human talent.
Kashyap's criticism was not isolated. Fellow filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane echoed similar concerns, sarcastically questioning the need for writers and directors if AI can create films. This backlash comes despite the fact that "Chiranjeevi Hanuman - The Eternal" is a culturally grounded project developed with inputs from cultural scholars and literary experts to maintain authenticity, involving over 50 engineers from Galleri5, the tech arm of CAN, and featuring music from an AI rock band launched by CAN.
Vijay Subramaniam defended the project, stating that it represents a unique opportunity to blend tradition with innovation. He emphasized transparency about AI’s role in the creative process and the goal of culturally rich storytelling for audiences who appreciate both heritage and new technology. Despite producer support from Subramaniam and Vikram Malhotra (Abundantia Entertainment), the project has triggered a debate about AI's place in cinema.
Notable reactions include Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, who reportedly supported Subramaniam’s approach, sparking backlash from fans defending traditional artistic methods. The controversy highlights a tension between embracing AI-driven technological innovation in filmmaking versus protecting the creative labor and artistic integrity of human artists. Indian cinema is at a crossroads, debating how AI might disrupt or complement the creative ecosystem.
As the debate continues, "Chiranjeevi Hanuman - The Eternal" stands as a symbol of the future of Indian cinema, a future that some see as a blend of tradition and innovation, while others fear it may marginalize human artists. The film's release in 2026 will undoubtedly be a significant event, shedding light on the direction Indian cinema is headed.
Read also:
- Today's most impactful photographic moments
- Support for Eric Adams in The Post's Letters to the Editor on August 13, 2025
- Roosting Shark and Rambunctious Red Squirrels: Unconventional House Rental in Yorkshire Involving Aquatic Marvel, Squirrely Mayhem, and Mystical Planning Regulations
- Legal Dispute Dismissed with Humor: Supreme Court Laughs off Another Civil Matter Mislabeled as Criminal Prosecution
