Our Bureau
Bengaluru
Indian mythology is emerging as a promising source of original intellectual property for the global video-game industry, with studios developing action-adventure titles inspired by the Ramayana, Mahabharata and other ancient Indian traditions. The projects aim to turn familiar stories, deities and mythological worlds into immersive experiences for players in India and overseas.
Among the projects drawing attention is The Age of Bhaarat, a dark-fantasy action-adventure being developed by Tara Gaming, a company co-founded by actor Amitabh Bachchan, author Amish Tripathi and Nouredine Abboud. The game places players in the role of a forest warden defending his community against Rakshasa forces. Its announcement trailer has attracted tens of millions of views, while about 70% of its wishlists are reportedly from outside India.
Indian mythology has not yet received the scale of video-game adaptation achieved by other mythological traditions. Indian mythologies have inspired blockbuster entertainment, while India’s ancient stories remain comparatively underrepresented in games.
Indian developers have already begun exploring the space. Pune-based Nodding Heads Games created Raji: An Ancient Epic, which draws on the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and is developing its sequel, Raji: Kaliyuga. International titles have also borrowed from the tradition; Japan’s CyberConnect2 developed Asura’s Wrath, combining Hindu and Buddhist elements with science fiction.
Another upcoming title, Hanuman’s Legacy, from Gurugram-based Tusharth Studios, is an action-adventure set in mythological India around 1200 BC.
The commercial opportunity is underscored by the success of China-inspired Black Myth: Wukong, which sold 10 million copies in three days and has since crossed 30 million, the report said.
For Indian studios, the challenge now is to translate source material into distinctive gameplay, compelling storytelling and globally competitive franchises.