Mumbai: Collective Studios’ Historyverse has announced Vikram Betal, a new AI-enabled storytelling project inspired by one of India’s most enduring narrative traditions. The show seeks to reinterpret the timeless tales of King Vikramaditya and Betal through contemporary filmmaking and emerging technologies while preserving the philosophical depth and cultural essence of the original stories.
Positioned as part of Historyverse’s expanding portfolio of culturally rooted content, Vikram Betal will combine heritage storytelling with advanced creative technologies to introduce these iconic narratives to newer generations of audiences.
Recognised for their moral complexity, thought-provoking dilemmas, and lasting cultural relevance, the stories of Vikram and Betal have remained an integral part of India’s storytelling heritage for generations. Through this adaptation, Historyverse aims to create a contemporary experience that retains the imagination, curiosity, and wisdom associated with the original tales.
As part of the initiative, Birla Open Minds has come on board as Knowledge Partner, supporting the project’s educational and cultural vision. The collaboration reflects a shared approach that positions heritage and technology as complementary forces capable of creating deeper engagement with India’s storytelling legacy.
The association will also provide students across the Birla Open Minds network with opportunities to understand the evolving role of artificial intelligence in storytelling, media, and content creation. Through curated interactions and behind-the-scenes experiences, students will gain exposure to the creative and technological processes involved in developing the show.
Speaking about the project, Vijay Subramaniam, Founder and Group CEO of Collective Artists Network, said, “Through Historyverse, our vision is to bring India’s rich history, folklore, and storytelling traditions to new audiences in formats that feel contemporary and engaging. Vikram Betal is a perfect example of an enduring IP that continues to spark imagination and critical thinking. Our partnership with Birla Open Minds allows us to extend this journey into education, creating meaningful ways for young learners to connect with India’s cultural heritage through the power of storytelling.”
Speaking about the collaboration, Nirvaan Birla, Managing Director, Birla Open Minds said, “We believe education should connect students with both cultural heritage and emerging technologies. The Vikram Betal project brings these two worlds together by reimagining one of India’s most iconic storytelling traditions through the use of Artificial Intelligence. It offers students a unique opportunity to engage with creativity, technology, and storytelling while remaining connected to the cultural foundations that continue to shape generations.”
The show will be developed using the creative and production capabilities of Galleri5, Collective Studios’ AI storytelling studio. The project will explore new approaches to visual storytelling while maintaining a strong emphasis on narrative authenticity and cultural research.
The announcement marks another milestone in Historyverse’s broader ambition to build a long-term storytelling ecosystem dedicated to Indian history, folklore, and cultural narratives across films, series, gaming, consumer experiences, and emerging content formats.
Through initiatives such as Vikram Betal, Historyverse continues to explore how technology can not only create new entertainment experiences but also preserve, reinterpret, and extend India’s storytelling traditions to audiences worldwide.
