‘Mahavatar Narsimha’ becomes India’s first ₹1 billion animated film

In a major breakthrough for Indian animation, Mahavatar Narsimha, a devotional animated feature directed by Ashwin Kumar, has become the first animated film — Indian or international — to cross ₹100 crore (₹1 billion) at the domestic box office.

Traditionally, animated films in India have enjoyed limited theatrical success, performing better on television and digital platforms. Even globally celebrated titles like Frozen 2, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and Incredibles 2 barely crossed the ₹50 crore mark in India. Among Indian productions, Hanuman previously held the record with just over ₹10 crore.

Released in multiple languages across the country, Mahavatar Narsimha initially opened to modest numbers. However, strong word-of-mouth and support from family audiences helped the film gain momentum, resulting in a significant boost during its second weekend.

By the end of its second week, the film had grossed over ₹1 billion, setting a new benchmark for animated cinema in India.

Encouraged by its overwhelming success, production house Hombale Films has announced the expansion of the Mahavatar Cinematic Universe, with six more animated films planned through to 2037.

With projections now pointing towards a ₹150–200 crore global haul, Mahavatar Narsimha may well mark the beginning of a new era for Indian animation — one rooted in cultural storytelling and mythological narratives.

The film’s triumph could pave the way for more large-scale, theatrical animated releases that blend Indian themes with universal appeal.