In his latest ‘Mann Ki Baat’ broadcast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the success of Indian animated series like ‘Chhota Bheem’, ‘Hanuman’, and ‘Motu-Patlu’, asserting that India is poised to lead a new revolution in animation. He encouraged citizens to aim for the country to become a global animation hub.
He remarked, “You must remember the days when ‘Chhota Bheem’ started airing on TV. Children can never forget that; there was so much excitement about ‘Chhota Bheem’!” Modi noted that characters like “Dholakpur ka Dhol” have captivated children not only in India but globally, adding that other series like ‘Krishna’, ‘Hanuman’, and ‘Motu-Patlu’ enjoy a substantial international following.
The Prime Minister pointed out the omnipresence of animation, saying, “From the smartphone to the cinema screen, gaming console to virtual reality, animation is omnipresent.” He believes India is on the brink of a major shift in the animation landscape.
Modi also mentioned the rapid growth of India’s gaming sector, highlighting that Indian games are gaining global recognition. “When I met leading gamers of India a few months ago… I got an opportunity to know and understand the amazing creativity and quality of Indian games,” he noted.
He emphasized the global impact of Indian talent in animation, stating, “You will be happy to know that today India’s talent is also a significant part of foreign productions.” Modi acknowledged contributions from Indian creators to popular films like Spider-Man and Transformers, and pointed out that Indian animation studios collaborate with major companies like Disney and Warner Brothers.
In discussing the demand for various roles in the animation industry, he said, “Today, the animation sector has donned the form of an industry that is powering other industries.” He cited examples of VR tours created by Indian animators that spark interest in tourism.
Modi encouraged youth to harness their creativity, saying, “Who knows, the world’s next super hit animation might emerge out of your computer!” He called on everyone to commit to making India a leader in animation, especially as ‘World Animation Day’ approaches on October 28.
He referenced Swami Vivekananda’s success mantra, “Take an idea, Make that one idea your life,” to underscore the spirit of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Modi pointed out that this movement is not only a government initiative but a collective endeavor that inspires people across sectors.
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s advancements, stating, “Just think, India, which used to import mobile phones once upon a time, is the world’s second largest manufacturer today.” He mentioned recent accomplishments in various fields, including the launch of Asia’s largest ‘Imaging Telescope MACE’ in Ladakh, proudly noting its ‘Made in India’ status.
He urged citizens to share their observations about innovations in their communities and to celebrate local startups using the hashtag Aatmanirbhar Innovation. Modi concluded by urging people to support the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign and adopt the ‘Vocal for Local’ mantra in their festive shopping. “This is the new India where the impossible is just a challenge… where Make in India has now turned into Make for the world,” he declared.