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Anurag Kashyap slams 'Chiranjeevi Hanuman' producers for AI-generated film
20 Aug 2025

Anurag Kashyap has criticized the makers of Chiranjeevi Hanuman: The Eternal, an upcoming project inspired by Lord Hanuman's legend.

Backed by Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network's Historyverse, the film is set to be created entirely with artificial intelligence (AI).

The announcement of the project sparked a heated debate in the Indian film industry about the use of AI in filmmaking.

'So much for looking after creators' interests'
Filmmaker's post

Kashyap took to Instagram to criticize the film's producer, Vijay Subramaniam.

He questioned how someone who heads an artists' agency could support an AI-generated film.

"Congratulations @vijaysubramaniam84. Here is the man heading the @lifeatcollectiveartistsnetwork that represents artists, writer, directors, now producing a film made by AI," he wrote.

"So much for looking after and representing the interests of creators."

Agencies only interested in making money, Kashyap added
Kashyap's statement

Kashyap further accused, "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."

"Well done Vijay Subramaniam. Shame is not enough on you. You should be in the gutter."

Vikramaditya Motwane also criticized the move
Industry reaction

Kashyap's post quickly garnered support from others in the industry. Filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane, a long-time friend and collaborator of Kashyap's, also criticized the move.

He shared the film's announcement on his Instagram Stories and wrote, "And so it begins... Who TF needs writers and directors when it's 'Made in AI.'"

This joint backlash highlights a growing concern in the creative industry about AI-generated art replacing human creativity.

Subramaniam defended his decision to produce an AI-generated film
Producer's response

In response to the backlash, Subramaniam defended his decision to produce an AI-generated film.

He said in a statement, "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."

The debate over AI's role in cinema is likely to continue.