Animation films are in vogue today and fairly a new concept in Indian cinema. Whether it is a 2D or 3D animation the audience is interested in them. Such films are watched by people of all ages. Thus their popularity has prompted established entertainment houses to invest in this arena. The animation films of Indian cinema are made to capture the hearts of both children and adults. Mostly the subjects of these animation films are based on Hindu mythology. It is simpler to narrate interestingly a known tale than introducing new characters to the audience. Moreover in a society where grandmother`s tales are being fast replaced by video games what better way it can be to familiarize kids with Hindu mythology!

One film that changed the fate of the animation film is Hanuman. At a time when superhero films, such as, Spiderman from Hollywood, Krrish (Indian cinema) and others were popular with the cine-goers Hanuman grabbed attention of the audience. Hanuman is one of the most adored mythological characters of all times. The film was superbly made and was interspersed with humour. The film was released in 2005 by Sahara India Pariwar. Directed by V.G. Samant, Silvertoons and Milind Ukey it was produced jointly by sumit Kumar and Purva Naresh.

The success of this film led to the production and release of a number of animation films in India. But none could, probably, repeat the success of this film, not even its sequel, Hanuman Returns. However there are animation films which can be considered the predecessors of Hanuman. Such films include Pandavas: The Five Warriors (2000) and The Legend of Buddha (2004). The latter was India`s entry to the Oscars in the animated film category.

When its mythology who can forget Krishna, the mischievous lord, the leader of the cowherds, mother`s pet and the nemesis for the evil forces. An animation film on Lord Krishna was released in two parts: Krishna - The Birth (2006) and Krishna - The Makhan Chor (2007).

In 2007 another animation film was released, Bal Ganesha. It dealt with the birth of Lord Ganesha and his childhood. The film is entertaining as well as informative. It was directed by Pankaj Sharma and produced by Shemaroo Films. Other animation films in Hindi include Ghatothkacha, Luv Kush and My Friend Ganesha.

Even down south several projects went on floor to carry forward the legacy of Hanuman.

Kittu, first animated film in Telugu is produced by Bhargav. In an interview he said, "Our motto has always been to promote Indian culture and heritage through cinema. Kittu too does the same. Though animated films take time and need more man power, we have invested in this medium because it`s the global trend right now. We plan to reach the international market too."

Singeetam Srinivasa Rao`s Son of Alladin, enjoyed success and critical acclaim. He has also made Mayabazar. With the investors willing to invest in the animation films directors can now plan big budget film to entertain and educate; the kind of device George Bernard Shaw always employed.

Animation films have become so popular in India that one of the leading entertainment houses, Yash Raj has teamed up with Walt Disney productions for an Indian language animation film. Several other projects are also in the pipeline.

To quote Walt Disney, "If you can dream it, you can do it. Always remember that this whole thing was started with a dream and a mouse." If the market permits then animation films in Indian cinema will be at par with the commercial films. Consequently the "dream" will be a reality.