For decades, the Mahabharata has been narrated through television, literature, theatre, and oral traditions. With Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh streaming on JioCinema, the epic enters a new era — one shaped by artificial intelligence and digital storytelling.
This adaptation is not merely a remake; it is an exploration of how technology can reshape the way heritage narratives are experienced.
Introduction
This version of the Mahabharat seeks to reinterpret the epic through AI-assisted visual production while maintaining the emotional and narrative depth of the original story. The objective is to present a culturally significant narrative in a format that resonates with contemporary digital audiences.
Release and Broadcast Details
Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh premiered on JioCinema on 25 October 2025. Shortly thereafter, it began airing on Star Plus at 7:30 PM IST from 26 October 2025, ensuring accessibility across both OTT and television platforms.
The series is structured as an extensive narrative with approximately 100 episodes, allowing for comprehensive coverage of the epic’s complex arcs and character journeys.
Production and Creative Leadership
The project is produced through a collaboration between JioStar and Collective Media Network. Producers including Vijay Subramaniam, Pinky Reddy, and Sudeep Lahiri are associated with the initiative.
While artificial intelligence is used extensively in generating visual elements, the storytelling remains guided by human writers, creative directors, and voice artists. This balance ensures that technology enhances the narrative rather than overshadowing it.
Visual and Narrative Approach
Unlike traditional adaptations that relied on elaborate physical sets and theatrical performances, this version utilizes AI-generated environments and stylized character renderings. The pacing is tailored for digital audiences, offering a more streamlined narrative experience.
The shift from tangible production scale to computational design marks a significant departure from earlier televised interpretations.
Audience Reception and Industry Impact
The response to the series has been diverse. Some viewers regard it as a progressive step in Indian entertainment, highlighting its innovative use of AI. Others prefer traditional storytelling formats and question whether technology can fully capture the epic’s emotional gravitas.
Regardless of perspective, the series has initiated meaningful discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in mainstream content production.
Conclusion
Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh represents a convergence of tradition and technology. By reimagining a foundational epic through AI-assisted production, the series reflects the evolving landscape of digital entertainment in India. Whether embraced as innovation or debated as experimentation, it stands as a significant milestone in the modern reinterpretation of classical narratives.
