'We have to welcome AI and shake hands with it,' says 'Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal' director Rajesh Mapuskar on the future of Indian cinema

Indian cinema is set to step into unexplored territory with 'Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal', India’s first fully AI-generated theatrical film. Scheduled for a theatrical release on Hanuman Jayanti, the project is directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rajesh Mapuskar.In an interview with Hindustan Times, Mapuskar explained how AI operates very differently from traditional animation. According to him, animation gives filmmakers complete control over every frame and movement, while AI behaves more like a creative collaborator.“When you make animation, you have complete control over even a little muscle movement of your character. While AI is an interactive tool, it’s like another brain working in parallel with you,” he said.Mapuskar added that while AI can sometimes behave unpredictably, that very unpredictability can lead to creative breakthroughs. “It’s like a breathing person working with you and along with you,” he noted.Addressing concerns about AI replacing human jobs, Mapuskar firmly dismissed the idea. “No, I don’t think it is a threat,” he said.According to the filmmaker, AI’s primary role is to accelerate processes rather than eliminate manpower. “AI is not going to replace human beings or reduce job opportunities. What AI will do is fasten the process. It’s about how you approach AI—whether you let AI control you or you control it. AI can help enhance conventional filmmaking.”He stressed that filmmaking still relies heavily on human effort and collaboration. “Even now, my generative crew is not less than 200 people. I still need human power and collective effort. AI is not going to take up any jobs,” he explained, adding that creative control always remains with the filmmaker, not the tool.Mapuskar also reflected on the lessons he drew from earlier AI-based projects such as Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh. He highlighted the importance of audience feedback when working with evolving technology. “When a project involves such evolving technology, you have to be sensitive to audience feedback because, ultimately, who are you making this content for?” he said.He revealed that he closely followed viewer reactions to both the series and his own teaser, using those insights to refine his vision. “I learned from what Mahabharat did and where it fell short. Now, I’m crafting my own vision for Chiranjeevi Hanuman,” he shared.For Mapuskar, embracing AI is not a choice but a necessity for the future of cinema. “We have to welcome AI and shake hands with it, not get threatened by it,” he asserted.He clarified that Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal prioritises Hanuman’s internal journey, with AI serving as a medium rather than the message. “People have asked me whether they will be watching the best AI film or the best film. For me, it will always be the latter,” he concluded.