Journey of ‘Mangal’: An Animation Highlighting Elephant Captivity Heads to Busan

A heartfelt story brought to animation

Indian animator presents her latest project, “Mangal – The Holy Beast,” at Busan’s prestigious Asian Project Market. This animated feature delves deeply into the plight of captive elephants, providing a gripping portrayal of their struggles and the broader implications on animal rights.

Through Mangal’s eyes

The film charts the tumultuous journey of Mangal, an elephant calf snatched from its natural habitat and thrust into a life of hardships. From logging work to circus performances, and finally becoming a temple elephant, Mangal’s story exposes the harsh realities of wild animals coerced into human service. This narrative doesn’t just animate a story but draws viewers into the profound themes of captivity, psychological trauma, and the loss of natural identity experienced by these magnificent creatures.

Inspiration behind the scenes

The seeds of this project were sown when the animator, during a visit to Kerala, southern India, witnessed firsthand the reality of captive elephants. The filmmaker’s attendance at the Thrissur Pooram festival, where elephants are displayed adorned with elaborate decorations yet remain chained, further sparked the inspiration to tell Mangal’s story.

The animator shared, “Seeing these powerful animals standing still with heavy chains reminded me of brides in Indian weddings, weighed down by gold jewelry, symbolizing restrictions more than celebration.” This parallel between captive elephants and the societal constraints on Indian women underscores the universal theme of restricted freedom.

A collaborative and well-supported venture

The project’s momentum received a significant boost when Producer Pooja Chauhan joined the team in 2023. Known for her work on films addressing deeply personal and social issues, Chauhan highlighted, “Our project explores themes central to identity and belonging, both crucial in the discourse on animal rights.”

This collaboration continues to receive support as the film moves through various stages of development. Moksha Pictures has provided initial funding for the film’s estimated $1.3 million budget. The current focus is on securing additional backing through co-productions and private investments.

Road to completion

The project has already garnered attention at notable forums, such as the MIFA Pitches at Annecy and India’s NFDC Screenwriters Lab, and will soon participate in Seattle’s Tasveer Film Market. The production team aims for a Q2 2025 start, with an eye on completion by the end of 2026.

Focus of the Busan Asian Project Market

Scheduled from October 5-8, the Busan Asian Project Market offers an invaluable platform for connecting with international producers, distributors, and sales agents sharing a passion for impactful storytelling. The broader Busan International Film Festival, running from October 2-11, serves as a confluence of global cinematic excellence, making it an ideal stage for “Mangal – The Holy Beast.”

Exploring deeper themes

At its core, “Mangal – The Holy Beast” is not just a film about an elephant’s journey. It is a poignant exploration of identity and freedom. The animator’s creative vision invites viewers to reflect on the broader social issues that parallel Mangal’s experiences. Captive elephants symbolize the universal struggle against oppression and the quest for rightful freedom, a theme resonating deeply across cultures and societies.

The film promises not only to highlight the plight of captive elephants but also to serve as a mirror reflecting larger societal norms. The characters and storylines will prompt discussions on how we, as a society, perceive and enact control, both on animals and humans.

Why this film matters

The significance of “Mangal – The Holy Beast” extends beyond its animation and storytelling. It embodies a movement of awareness and empathy for captive animals, urging society to reconsider and challenge long-held beliefs and practices. This film stands as a testament to the power of animation in portraying deep, hard-hitting realities and serving as a catalyst for change.

The anticipation surrounding the screening at the Busan Festival and its subsequent journey through various international markets is palpable. As the project attracts more eyes and interest, the message it carries is bound to spark much-needed conversations around animal welfare and rights.

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