INDIA: The Ramayana has been adapted into several live-action and animated versions. But only Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayana (1987) and Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama (1992) directed by Yugo Sako, Ram Mohan, and Koichi Saski have properly adapted the ancient Indian epic.
Misinterpretation leads to a ban on theatrical release of Ramayana in India
The film was widely released in the United States and Japan, where it received a positive reception from both audiences and critics. However, it was not made available in India. According to multiple media sources, a media portal reported Yugo Sako’s documentary The Ramayana Relics.
Shortly thereafter, the Japanese Embassy in Delhi received a protest letter from the Vishva Hindu Parishad due to a misconception, stating that no foreigners could arbitrarily film the Ramayana because it is the great national heritage of India.
The “Vishva Hindu Parishad” was unsure if Yugo Sako would faithfully adapt the ancient epic or whether the animation format would affect the ethics of the story, which led to the film’s theatrical premiere in India being canceled. After a few years, it was broadcast on Indian television, where it captivated the Indian audience with an incredible experience, and it was recognized as a magnificent work of art by the Indian audience.
The film’s flawless animation evokes nostalgia in generations born in the 1990s and early 2000s.
The good news for Indian anime enthusiasts is that the film will finally be released this year. India and Japan will mark 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2022. The Japan Film Festival will be hosted in India at the same time.
Cinephiles are looking forward to the 4K remastered version of the film, which will have significant breakthroughs in animation elements. However, no release date has been set for the film.
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