Kurukshetra Animated Series Review: An Epic Journey Through the Mahabharata
The animated series “Kurukshetra” has been described as a “super” series that managed to maintain interest throughout its viewing. While the extent of changes and additions made to the original story is unknown, watching two episodes daily was a captivating experience. This grand depiction of the Mahabharata was crafted with impressive, massive animation, making each episode engaging and well-executed. The advanced design and vision of how each episode and screenplay should unfold, conceived even before the animation began, is commendable, representing excellent work.
The Vision Behind the Kurukshetra Animation
The creators dedicated an unknown number of years to this project, focusing primarily on key events of the war without lengthy introductions. This approach resulted in a series so extensive that if director Rajamouli were to tackle it, it might require at least 10 films. The series is currently streaming on TeluguOne, with each episode lasting approximately 25-30 minutes, effectively around 20 minutes after excluding the last five minutes of end credits. The sheer scale and execution leave viewers astonished.
Stellar Animation and Storytelling
The animation quality is exceptional, encompassing expressions, hand movements, action sequence effects, and especially the Telugu dubbing, all of which are remarkably well done. The experience of following the Bhagavad Gita slokas, whether through Sanjaya or Arjuna, was palpable in some sections. Furthermore, the screenplay and storytelling exhibit cinematic quality. A particular highlight mentioned is the third episode, which depicts the defeat of Bhishma, described as “excellent.” The animation allowed for effective management of acting and other elements.
A Look at the Upcoming Episodes
Currently, nine episodes are available, with an additional nine upcoming episodes slated for release soon, bringing the total to 18 episodes.
Points to Consider: Addressing the Nuances
One aspect that requires some prior knowledge is the sheer number of characters in the Mahabharata, including the Pancha Pandavas and the 100 Kauravas. The series’ screenplay often names a character for an episode and then quickly narrates their backstory. In the initial three episodes, distinguishing characters was challenging. Another observation was that despite Lord Krishna being the charioteer in the war, he was not prominently highlighted, though this might change in the forthcoming nine episodes. Viewers who have thoroughly read the Bhagavad Gita might find any alterations to the story potentially upsetting or unacceptable.
Episode-by-Episode Insights
Episode 1: Sanjaya This 25-minute episode begins with the wedding of Uttara and Abhimanyu. Sanjaya serves as a key point, initiating the war and witnessing the 18-day battle. It quickly covers events like Draupadi’s Vastraharan and introduces many characters through a fast-paced montage, concluding with the declaration, “Kurukshetram is ready.” While effective, this rapid introduction might be better appreciated by those already familiar with the Mahabharata characters.
Episode 2: Vishwaroop In this episode, Arjuna expresses reluctance to fight his gurus. Lord Krishna convinces him, revealing his Vishwaroopam in a scene that stands out. Each scene in this episode is designed to convey the meaning of a specific sloka. It ends with Lord Krishna confronting Bhishma, marking the completion of the first three days of the war.
Episode 3: Srikarni and Bhishma Described as an episode so compelling that even a film might not suffice, it delves into the backstories of Srikarni and Bhishma Pitamaha. The episode excellently portrays how Lord Krishna, with the assistance of Amba Devi, orchestrates Bhishma’s defeat.
Episode 4: Dronacharya This episode explains why Dronacharya taught archery. While it felt a bit slower at points, the war animation in between was impressive. Elements like Bhima being wounded and an elephant being killed were well-executed, signifying the passage of many days.
Episode 5: Abhimanyu This episode is hailed as captivating and never boring. It powerfully depicts Abhimanyu’s heroic valor and emotional journey, culminating in his brutal death within the Chakravyuha, showcasing both action and emotion effectively.
Episode 6: Jayadrath This episode was considered “just okay.” It covers Jayadrath’s attempt to abduct Panchali, the Pandavas’ intervention to save her, and Jayadrath’s subsequent humiliation. The episode’s animation was noted as amazing, setting up events for the next installment.
Episode 7: Arjun Focusing on Jayadrath’s death at Arjun’s hands, the episode questions whether the challenge was met. The animation effectively visualizes the Padmavyuha, something that might be difficult to achieve in live-action. While generally good, some elements, like a head perfectly landing in a father’s lap, felt less believable towards the end.
Episode 8: Ghatotkacha This episode features a massive battle involving Ghatotkacha and the Kauravas. It details the birth of Ghatotkacha, who is half-human and half-demon, and his death in battle, illustrating how it impacted Karna. This entire segment is conveyed through an intense, large-scale fight.
Episode 9: Yudhishthira This episode covers the pivotal moment where Lord Krishna orchestrates a game with Yudhishthira, leading to the pronouncement “Ashwatthama Hathah Kunjara.” This event is described as a significant turning point in the Kurukshetra war. The episode concludes by offering a glimpse into the next nine episodes, leaving the audience with a sense that much more of the story is yet to unfold.
Final Verdict
“Kurukshetra” is presented as a must-watch series that was thoroughly enjoyed. The reviewer believes that an animated format is better suited for depicting the grand scale of the war, the battlefield, and the numerous characters compared to a live-action rendition. The series receives a rating of 3.5.
