by Studio Khara and Mahiro Maeda Join the Production of ‘BAAHUBALI: THE ETERNAL WAR PART 1’
One of India’s biggest cinematic franchises is making a bold leap into animation. Studio Khara, the acclaimed Japanese animation studio best known for the Rebuild of Evangelion films, has officially joined the production of BAAHUBALI: THE ETERNAL WAR PART 1 (working title), a new feature-length animated film inspired by the world of the blockbuster Indian Baahubali series.
The ambitious international co-production is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release in 2027, although a Japanese release date has not yet been announced.
Alongside the announcement, the production team also unveiled the first concept visuals created by Studio Khara, offering fans an exciting glimpse of the film’s unique visual style.
A New Chapter in the Baahubali Universe
Rather than retelling the story of the original live-action films, BAAHUBALI: THE ETERNAL WAR PART 1 expands the franchise with an entirely new adventure set after the events of the blockbuster movies.
The story follows Amarendra Baahubali, the legendary king, as he journeys into the afterlife and becomes caught in a massive cosmic conflict between the Devas (gods) and the Asuras (demons).
By moving beyond the events of the live-action films, the animated feature explores mythology, fantasy, and large-scale battles that can only be fully realized through animation.
The project aims to preserve the epic spirit of the original Baahubali films while introducing audiences to an entirely new chapter in the beloved universe.
Studio Khara Brings Japanese Animation Expertise
Studio Khara’s participation is one of the biggest highlights of the project.
Founded by acclaimed filmmaker Hideaki Anno, Studio Khara has earned worldwide recognition for its groundbreaking work on the Evangelion franchise and its meticulous animation quality.
For BAAHUBALI: THE ETERNAL WAR PART 1, the studio will handle key portions of the animation, contributing its signature craftsmanship to the international production.
The announcement also confirmed that legendary animator and director Mahiro Maeda will serve as one of the project’s principal creative staff members.
Maeda is internationally respected for his work on:
- Neon Genesis Evangelion
- Shin Godzilla
- Mad Max: Fury Road (concept art and design)
- Numerous acclaimed anime and film projects
His involvement further raises expectations for the film’s artistic quality.
International Production Featuring Top Studios
The animated feature is being developed as a truly global collaboration.
Production brings together leading studios and creative talent from:
- India
- Japan
- France
- United Kingdom
Japanese production company Slow Curve is also participating as a producer.
The company will oversee the planning and production of Studio Khara’s animation work while coordinating collaboration between Japanese creators and international production teams.
According to the announcement, Slow Curve’s role is to strengthen creative partnerships across countries and help establish a new model for large-scale international animation production.
Award-Winning Creative Team
The production boasts an impressive lineup of internationally recognized creators.
Director
The film is directed by Ishan Shukla, an award-winning filmmaker known for his visually ambitious storytelling and contributions to Star Wars: Visions Season 2.
Animation Direction
Japanese animator Akira Honma will oversee the animation direction, ensuring that the action sequences and fantasy visuals maintain a high level of quality.
Character Design
Character designs are being created by Noriko Ito, who brings extensive experience in expressive character animation.
Screenwriter
The screenplay is written by Scott Mosier, known for his work on Illumination’s animated adaptation of The Grinch.
Music
The film’s score will once again be composed by M.M. Keeravani, the Academy Award-winning composer behind both the original Baahubali films and RRR.
His return helps preserve the musical identity that became one of the franchise’s defining strengths.
Original Live-Action Cast Returns
Fans of the live-action films will be pleased to know that several original cast members are returning to voice their iconic characters.
Confirmed cast members include:
- Prabhas as Amarendra Baahubali
- Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami
Their return adds authenticity to the animated adaptation while preserving the emotional connection longtime fans have with the franchise.
The production team has also emphasized that the animation will faithfully capture the physical movements, traditional martial arts, and larger-than-life action that made the live-action films internationally famous.
Highest Budget for an Indian Animated Feature
The producers have revealed that BAAHUBALI: THE ETERNAL WAR PART 1 is being created with the largest production budget ever allocated to an Indian animated feature film.
The project combines cutting-edge animation technology with cinematic storytelling in an effort to establish a new global benchmark for Indian animation.
The film also features artists who have previously worked on the acclaimed Spider-Verse films, further strengthening its international production team.
First Studio Khara Visuals Revealed
To celebrate the announcement, the production released the first image cuts created by Studio Khara.
The artwork showcases a darker, more cinematic interpretation of the Baahubali universe while maintaining the grand fantasy scale that fans expect.
Although only a few preview images have been revealed, they already hint at spectacular battles, detailed environments, and powerful mythological imagery.
Featured at Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2026
Another major milestone for the project is its selection for the Work in Progress program at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2026, widely regarded as the world’s most prestigious animation festival.
During the event, the creative team will present:
- New production footage
- Behind-the-scenes development
- Progress updates
- The international production process
The Annecy presentation is expected to generate even greater interest among animation professionals and global audiences.
Building on the Legacy of Baahubali
Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, the original Baahubali films became worldwide phenomena thanks to their epic storytelling, breathtaking action, and memorable characters.
The franchise helped introduce Indian blockbuster cinema to international audiences and laid the foundation for later global successes such as RRR.
Rather than replacing the live-action films, the upcoming animated feature serves as an official continuation of the Baahubali universe, exploring stories that extend beyond what was shown on screen.
What Fans Can Expect
Although many details remain under wraps, viewers can expect:
- Large-scale mythological battles
- Stunning anime-inspired visuals
- Emotional storytelling
- Expanded Baahubali lore
- Returning iconic characters
- Original music from M.M. Keeravani
- International-quality animation combining Japanese and Indian artistry
More information, including additional cast announcements, trailers, and a full release schedule, is expected to be revealed as production progresses.
Final Thoughts
BAAHUBALI: THE ETERNAL WAR PART 1 represents one of the most ambitious international animation collaborations in recent years.
By bringing together the creative talents of Studio Khara, Indian filmmakers, European production partners, and globally acclaimed artists, the film aims to deliver a cinematic experience unlike anything seen before.
For fans of Baahubali, anime enthusiasts, and lovers of epic fantasy alike, this 2027 release is shaping up to be one of the most exciting animated films currently in development.
Project Information
Title: BAAHUBALI: THE ETERNAL WAR PART 1 (Working Title)
Format: Feature-Length Animated Film
Worldwide Release: 2027
Japanese Release: To Be Announced
Director: Ishan Shukla
Animation Production: Studio Khara (Japan) and international production partners
Japanese Producer: Slow Curve
Animation Director: Akira Honma
Character Designer: Noriko Ito
Screenwriter: Scott Mosier
Music: M.M. Keeravani
Returning Voice Cast:
- Prabhas as Amarendra Baahubali
- Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami
Festival Selection: Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2026 – Work in Progress Section
Stay tuned for future announcements, including a full trailer, additional cast members, and the official release schedule.
