The unexpected success of a film based on the life journey of Neeb Karori Baba—made on a budget of approximately ₹2 crore—has not only surprised its producers but also captured the attention of the film industry. Prior to this, the success of films like *Krishnavataram Part 1*, *Lalo – Krishna Sada Sahayate*, and *Hanu-Man* had already signaled this shifting trend.

Several religious films are gearing up for release in the near future. Is this confluence of faith, technology, and market dynamics heralding a new era of religious cinema in India? Here is a thematic story exploring this phenomenon:

**Karan Johar to Make a Film on Radha-Krishna**
Karan Johar is now preparing to make a film based on the story of Radha and Krishna. Sanjay Mishra will be seen playing the role of Sai Baba in a film titled *Tera Sai*. Meanwhile, a film based on Shri Khatu Shyam Ji is also in the works. Additionally, *Mahakavya Shri Ramayana Katha* is currently under production. On the other hand, Ranbir Kapoor’s highly anticipated film *Ramayana* is set for a Diwali release.

**Why Are Mythological Films Being Made?**
*Mahavatar*, starring Vicky Kaushal, is also under production. Trade analyst Atul Mohan attributes this growing trend towards religious films to the prevailing religious and cultural atmosphere in the country over the last few years. He notes that recent developments—such as the Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi, Mahakal Lok in Ujjain, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the redevelopment of Kedarnath, and the expansion of religious sites like Somnath—have connected people more deeply to their faith and culture than ever before.

When an atmosphere of devotion and faith permeates society, stories rooted in these themes naturally attract audiences. Moreover, people have become far more vocal about their faith. In such a climate, any quality content that resonates with the public tends to be well-received. Before *Hanuman-ansh*, a film titled *Shri Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj* was released, but it did not succeed. If a film has good content and is made with sincere intentions, it will work.

**South Indian films set the trend**
Prior to this, South Indian films like *Hanu-Man* and *Kantara*, as well as the animated film *Mahavatar Narasimha*, had already achieved great success. An atmosphere has now been created where, if religious films are well-made, they are sure to succeed. In any case, when a particular type of film becomes a hit, everyone tends to follow that trend.

**What does the director of *Krishnavataram* have to say?**
Regarding the renewed interest in religious films after a long hiatus, Hardik Gajjar, director of *Krishnavataram: Part 1*, observes that amidst a negative atmosphere, the Divine emerges as a beacon of hope for people. He notes that films like *Adipurush* followed the success of *Jai Santoshi Maa*. While this genre existed previously, the number of such films was limited at the time.

Now, the scope and path for creating such films have expanded significantly. Matters rooted in faith lead us toward positivity. My reason for making *Krishnavataram* was to show that our God taught us to live with love and to love everyone. How does one lead an ordinary life? What is *Karma* (duty/action)? I based my film on these very principles. This is our culture; this is our heritage.

He added, "Krishna is referred to as *Purna Purushottam* (the Supreme Being). He embodied all sixteen *Kalas* (divine attributes/arts). Therefore, one must bring each of these attributes to the forefront. Love was just one theme; through the essence of the *Gita*, He explained the nature of *Karma* and how a human being should live and conduct themselves."

**Making a film for Gen Z?**
*Krishnavataram: Part 2* is based on the principles of living and the philosophy of life taught by Lord Krishna. Through the trilogy, we decided to bring their philosophy to the forefront so that Gen Z could also experience it. This is what we have to pass on to the next generation.

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