TLDR: India is set to witness a new era of content creation with the premiere of ‘Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh,’ the nation’s first AI-powered mythological series. Launching on October 25, 2025, on JioHotstar and subsequently on Star Plus, the 100-episode saga promises an immersive retelling of the epic tale, blending traditional narratives with cutting-edge artificial intelligence for enhanced visuals and battle sequences. The series, a collaboration between JioStar and Collective Media Network, marks a significant milestone in Indian entertainment, though it also sparks debate about AI’s role in creative fields.
A groundbreaking moment in Indian entertainment is upon us as ‘Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh,’ touted as India’s first-ever mythological series powered by artificial intelligence, is set to premiere. The highly anticipated 100-episode series will debut digitally on JioHotstar on Saturday, October 25, 2025, and will also be telecast on Star Plus from October 26, 2025, at 7:30 pm IST.
This ambitious project, a collaboration between JioStar and Collective Media Network, aims to offer an innovative retelling of the ancient epic saga of the Pandavas and Kauravas. By blending traditional storytelling with advanced AI technology, the series promises immersive visual experiences and lifelike battle sequences, providing a bridge between India’s rich cultural heritage and visionary technology.
Vijay Subramaniam, Founder & Group CEO of Collective Artists Network, hailed the series as a ‘landmark in Indian entertainment that respects tradition while exploring new frontiers.’ He further elaborated on the vision, stating, ‘For many of us, the Mahabharat is more than just a story; it’s the tales we grew up hearing from our parents and grandparents, stories that shaped our imagination and values. With AI Mahabharat, we get to experience those same timeless stories in a completely new way, brought to life through the power of modern AI technology.’ Kevin Vaz, CEO of entertainment at JioHotstar, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the platform’s commitment to ‘leveraging the power of technology to enhance the viewing experience.’
The series is expected to deliver a nostalgic yet futuristic experience, enhancing the emotional and visual depth of the epic battle between dharma (righteousness) and adharma (unrighteousness). Viewers can anticipate iconic scenes, complex characters, and timeless lessons on justice, duty, and destiny, all presented with cutting-edge effects and narration.
While the announcement has generated considerable excitement among fans eager to witness how AI can create fully realized cinematic experiences, it has also sparked discussions regarding the role of AI in creative endeavors. Some critics have raised concerns about the potential for AI to replace human artistic work, advocating for AI to serve as a tool for artists rather than a substitute for their creativity. This debate aligns with broader industry conversations, especially in light of recent government proposals on October 23, 2025, to amend IT rules to address deepfakes and misinformation, mandating that all AI-generated content be clearly marked. This move underscores the growing importance of regulating AI’s fast-evolving landscape and its impact on content creation and public perception.
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‘Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh’ is poised to mark a new era for Indian television, showcasing the potential of artificial intelligence to reimagine classic narratives for a contemporary audience.
