The film Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to in his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat – “Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama” – is being screened at the ongoing Mumbai International Film Festival 2022 today.

It was the first animation film which was co-produced by the two countries and released in 1993 and now celebrates 30 years since its launch. The PM had during his recent visit met Atsushi Matsuo and Kenji Yoshi who were part of this project.

Referring to the director of the film, PM said that it was in 1983, 40 years ago, that Yugo Sako came to know about Ramayana. He said that the director was so touched by the epic that he started researching deeply about it. “He read 10 versions of Ramayana in Japanese language, and not only did he stop at this, he also wanted to showcase it through animation,” PM said.

During the collaboration, the PM said Indian animators helped Sako to know about the Indian customs and traditions that have been shown in the animation film. Modi said: “He was told how people in India wear dhoti, saree, how they groom their hair, how children respect each other within the family, offering salutation to the elders of the household, seeking their blessings – all these things!.”

Based on Valmiki’s Ramayana, the film is directed by legendary Indian animator Ram Mohan and Japanese director Yûgô Sakô and Koichi Saski.

Click on the link to watch the film: The Legend Of Prince Rama

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