AI-Generated Film ‘Chianjeevi Hanuman The Eternal’ Announced for 2026; Anurag Kashyap Criticises Producer
Earlier today, Collective Artists Network, led by Vijay Subramaniam, along with Abundantia Entertainment, unveiled the poster of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, promoted as the first “AI-made” film of its kind.
The poster’s release quickly triggered a wave of criticism from leading filmmakers, intensifying the ongoing debate about artificial intelligence in cinema.
Growing Concerns Over AI in Cinema
The controversy follows a string of debates about AI’s presence in filmmaking. Recently, the Tamil version of Aanand L Rai’s Raanjhanaa was altered using AI to change its climax, sparking intense backlash online.
Now, with the announcement of a fully AI-generated feature film based on Lord Hanuman’s lore, filmmakers and cinephiles are questioning the creative and ethical implications of this shift.
Anurag Kashyap’s Strong Rebuke
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap was among the most vocal critics. Sharing his thoughts on Instagram, he directly addressed Vijay Subramaniam, writing:
“Congratulations @vijaysubramaniam84. Here is the man heading the @lifeatcollectiveartistsnetwork that represents artists, writers, and directors, now producing a film made by AI. So much for looking after and representing the interests of creators.
End of the day, all these agencies are only interested in making money off you, and since they choose turkeys after turkeys for you and you’re not making enough for them, they are going all AI.”
He continued, “Any actor or anyone who calls themselves artists and has a spine, will be and should be either questioning him or leaving the agency since he has proved that he thinks you’re no match for his AI performance.
This right here is the future for the spineless and cowardly so-called artists in the Hindi Film industry. Well done, Vijay Subramaniam. Shame is not enough for you. You should be in the gutter.”
Vikramaditya Motwane’s Take
Director Vikramaditya Motwane also weighed in. Sharing the announcement on his Instagram stories, he remarked, “And so it begins… Who TF needs writers and directors when it’s ‘Made in AI’?”
His sharp comment reflected the fear many filmmakers hold about AI replacing traditional creative roles.
The Official Announcement
Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network’s Historyverse announced the film with a statement that read:
“Proud and honoured to bring the timeless story of ‘Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal’, to theatres, in a first-of-its-kind, ‘Made-In-AI’, ‘Made-In-India’ avatar. With deep reverence for our culture, heritage and history, we are set to release this innovative spectacle in theatres on Hanuman Jayanti 2026.”
The production house positioned the project as both culturally significant and technologically innovative, describing it as a respectful blend of heritage and modern storytelling.
Ranveer Singh’s Support and Fans’ Criticism
Amid the backlash, actor Ranveer Singh extended his support to the project. He shared the joint Instagram post by Abundantia Entertainment, which also tagged Vijay Subramaniam, and followed it up with a comment of encouragement.
However, fans were quick to criticize his stance. One user commented, “It’s AI. One day, they’ll make a movie without you using AI. Why are you supporting this lack of creativity?”
Another added, “What’s waah about this bro? Isn’t it disrespectful to real artists?” A third comment read, “As a part of the cinema industry and actor with a huge reach, the least you can do is boycott the use of AI in the creative industries and promote actual screenwriters.”
Vijay Subramaniam’s Response
In an official statement, Vijay Subramaniam defended the vision behind the project.
He said, “With this film, we have the extraordinary opportunity to reimagine cultural storytelling for an audience that cherishes both tradition and innovation. Our approach is rooted in authenticity and cultural stewardship, ensuring complete transparency about the role of AI in the creative process.”
His words attempted to balance the criticism by positioning AI as a tool for innovation rather than replacement.
Continuing Backlash from Filmmakers
Despite this explanation, both Kashyap and Motwane continued to stand by their criticism.
Kashyap reiterated on Instagram, “This right here is the future for the spineless and cowardly so-called artists in the Hindi Film industry. Well done Vijay Subramaniam. Shame is not enough on you. You should be in the gutter.”
Motwane maintained his sarcastic stance with his remark about writers and directors being sidelined.
Conclusion and Ranveer’s Next Project
The announcement of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal has thus become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate around AI in filmmaking.
While its makers argue that the film celebrates both tradition and modern innovation, leading filmmakers see it as a dangerous precedent that undermines the role of human creativity.
On the professional front, Ranveer Singh, who publicly supported Vijay Subramaniam, will next be seen in Dhurandhar, scheduled for release in December this year.
