Chandoo Mondeti Launches Animated Film Vayuputra Celebrating Hanuman

Filmmaker Chandoo Mondeti is making a significant move into the world of animation with his upcoming mythological film, Vayuputra, which celebrates the legendary figure of Lord Hanuman. Following the success of his socio-fantasy film Karthikeya 2, which grossed over ₹300 crores, Mondeti is embarking on this project as a realization of a childhood dream.

In an exclusive interview with the Deccan Chronicle, Mondeti expressed his excitement about bringing Hanuman’s story to life through animation. “This has been my childhood dream—to tell the story of Lord Hanuman through animation,” he stated. The film aims to depict the moment when Hanuman discovers his true potential as he leaps across the ocean in search of Goddess Sita, showcasing his extraordinary feats.

Mondeti emphasized the importance of this narrative, stating that it is designed to not only entertain but also inspire audiences of all ages. He draws inspiration from Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, hoping to present these tales in a vibrant and engaging manner. “Personally, I enjoy animation—be it Marvel films or Demon Slayer—and I watch them with my kids,” he noted, indicating a desire to make Indian mythology accessible and appealing to younger generations.

The success of Mahavatar Narasimha, which demonstrated the viability of devotional animation, played a crucial role in Mondeti’s decision to create Vayuputra. “It proved that devotional animation has a huge market and can connect with global audiences,” he explained. His aim is to instill an appreciation for the qualities of Hanuman—his strength and humility—among today’s youth.

When asked about the decision to forgo a major star for the project, Mondeti highlighted the creative freedom that comes from not being tied to a celebrity’s schedule. He acknowledged that working with big stars often leads to extended waiting periods and script alterations that can dilute the story’s essence. Instead, he is focused on crafting the film exactly as he envisions it, with a core team of five technicians responsible for the storyboard and a larger team of 50 to 100 working on visual effects.

Despite his successful collaborations with Telugu stars like Naga Chaitanya and Nikhil, Mondeti is now exploring opportunities in Bollywood. He revealed that he is in discussions with Vicky Kaushal and Kartik Aaryan, although both actors have busy schedules for the upcoming year. “Making a Bollywood debut has always been a dream for me,” he admitted, underscoring his ambition to expand his filmmaking horizons.

As Mondeti turns his focus fully to Vayuputra, he hopes the film will soar high and establish new benchmarks in the animation genre. With a commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences, Mondeti is set to make a significant mark in the animation landscape, particularly in the realm of Indian mythology.