Goa: The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa saw a remarkable addition to its Indian Panorama section with the screening of Hanu-Man, a visually captivating and culturally rich cinematic venture directed by Prasanth Varma.
Set in the fictional village of Anjanadri, the film follows the transformative journey of Hanumanthu, a petty thief who acquires divine powers from a fossilized drop of Lord Hanuman’s blood. This newfound strength propels him into an epic confrontation with a self-proclaimed superhero, weaving together themes of mythology, bravery, and human resilience.
Teja Sajja, who plays the titular role, spoke at length about the responsibility of embodying a character rooted in Indian mythology. “It’s a privilege to represent a narrative that is deeply entrenched in our cultural heritage while resonating with audiences globally,” he said. Sajja commended the film’s creative vision, led by Director Prasanth Varma, who overcame budgetary constraints to deliver visuals on par with grand-scale Indian cinema.
The fictional village of Anjanadri, meticulously recreated on a Hyderabad set, showcased the ingenuity of the production team. “Building Anjanadri from scratch was challenging, but it reflects the team’s dedication to authenticity,” Sajja remarked.
The actor also highlighted the film’s ambition to position Indian cinema on a global stage, celebrating its mythological roots while making them accessible to international audiences. He expressed pride in portraying a culturally significant character and shared plans for a sequel, promising a grander narrative.
Sajja emphasized the importance of well-rounded female characters, noting their crucial contributions to the storyline. “Strong female characters are not just complementary; they are essential to the narrative’s depth and progression,” he said.
The success of Hanu-Man is a testament to the growing impact of Telugu cinema, which continues to push boundaries with innovative storytelling and compelling performances. Sajja lauded audiences for their unwavering love for cinema, attributing the industry’s growth to their appreciation for diverse narratives.
Blending mythology with modern storytelling, Hanu-Man serves as a bridge between India’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary cinematic techniques. Its inclusion in the Indian Panorama section at IFFI underscores its artistic and cultural significance, heralding a promising future for Indian mythological cinema.