Mumbai: Chhota Bheem, India’s very own animation series has been enthralling the audiences for fourteen years. Green Gold Animation, the studio behind the series, has now signed up with the timeless tennis star Leander Paes for an animation series on his life story, tentatively titled Little Leander.
This animated original will be based on Leander’s life, the challenges and his childhood experiences during his journey to become one of the greatest tennis stars and a global icon. One of the most successful players in tennis history with 8 career Grand Slam doubles titles and 10 career Grand Slam mixed doubles championships, he also holds many a firsts in the world of tennis. The former Doubles world number 1 is an inspiration both on and off the court.
The show will take inspiration from true events in his life and will be created with kids and young teens in mind. This sports adventure will serve to bring out the the passion, the sacrifices, the attitude and the heart required to accept wins and losses with grace as personified by Leander throughout his life and career. Green Gold Animation is looking at creating the series in 3D/2D Animation format.
The tennis star has visited the studio’s state of the art facility at Hyderabad for multiple narration sessions and has been involved in the initial phase of visual development. Little Leander will not just focus on Leander Paes’ life story, interesting incidents, turning points but also use his childhood images for referencing and research work. The team will reach out to his family members, close friends and associates as well to put together the background material.
Rajiv Chilaka, Founder & CEO, Green Gold Animation, shared his thoughts on the show “ We are truly honoured to be able to collaborate with Leander Paes. We are privileged everytime we get to witness genius, in any field. Leander has given us many of those moments and still continues to inspire us off court. But genius is nurtured through the hardest of challenges. It’s not easy to be a Leander Paes, but it’s not meant to be easy. What does make a champion?
With Little Leander, we want to showcase the aspects behind the icon, the winner, the world number 1. We hope to capture the fun, the sweet and the hard moments; the learnings from losses and the joy of victory. Hopefully we are able to create a global IP that inspires todays generation to carry the legacy of Mr. Leander Paes both on and off court.”
Speaking on the occasion, Tennis super star, Leander Paes said “ I’m thrilled for this show to be made because this in a way also becomes my legacy to stay. This is a very heartwarming opportunity because through this series I will be communicating with young minds and looking to inspire them towards positive development. The thought in itself is very fulfilling. I met Rajiv multiple times to understand how the story will develop and his vision for the series, I’m assured that I’m in safe hands. I would like to thank Kim and Rajiv for making this happen. I’m glad that this is taking off and can’t wait to see the pilot now”.
The pilot/teaser is expected to be ready in three months and Leander has also committed to the promotion of the series along with Green Gold.
