Mumbai: KidZ on Zee 5, children’s favourite safe, fun and guilt-free screen time destination, has further strengthened its kids’ content portfolio with the launch of mythological animation, Shivlok Ke Kundakka Mandakka (SKM). Adapted from acclaimed author Anand Neelakantan’s bestselling children’s book, The Very, Extremely, Most Naughty Asura Tales for Kids, Shivlok Ke Kundakka Mandakka brings the much-loved mythological world to life on screen. Premiering on July 17, the story revolves around Kundakka and Mandakka, two mischievous Asura twins whose playful antics lead them on an extraordinary adventure of courage, friendship and self-discovery. Set in a fascinating world of mythology that goes beyond the familiar tales of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, the series introduces children and families to fresh characters, unexplored worlds and magical adventures inspired by India’s rich mythological heritage.
Blending humour, action and vibrant animation, the series reimagines mythology for today’s young audiences while celebrating the idea that heroes are defined by the choices they make, not by perfection. Designed as the first of a much larger universe waiting to unfold, Shivlok Ke Kundakka Mandakka lays the foundation for an expansive world that will grow through new characters, adventures and stories ahead. This invites young audiences to experience Indian mythology through a lens that is playful, unexpected and refreshingly different. The series offers a new perspective by placing two mischievous Asura characters at the heart of the story, challenging the notion that playful children lack values or discipline. Through the adventures of Kundakka and Mandakka, viewers discover that curiosity and mischief can coexist with kindness, courage, and empathy.
With KidZ, Zee 5 is building a trusted destination for children and families through safe, age-appropriate entertainment rooted in Indian culture and contemporary storytelling. Designed as a wholesome co-viewing experience, the series brings children and parents together through stories that entertain while celebrating timeless values. Shivlok Ke Kundakka Mandakka will be available in six languages – Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bangla and English.
Commenting on the launch, Chandan Khandelwal, Business Head, KidZ, Zee 5, said, “At Zee 5, we believe some of the most enduring stories are those that have been cherished across generations, and we’re excited to collaborate with celebrated storytellers like Anand Neelakantan to bring these worlds to life for today’s young audiences. With Shivlok Ke Kundakka Mandakka, we wanted to take families beyond the mythology they already know and introduce them to a fresh universe filled with memorable characters, humour, adventure and timeless values. Through Shivlok Ke Kundakka Mandakka, we’re combining the richness of Indian mythology with engaging storytelling and high-quality animation. This creates an experience that is both entertaining and meaningful making the series an engaging co-viewing experience for both children and parents. As we continue to grow KidZ, our focus remains on building homegrown franchises by partnering with creators who can help us reimagine India’s storytelling legacy in ways that resonate with children and families across languages and generations.”
Speaking about the adaptation, Anand Neelakantan said, “I’m delighted to see KidZ bring my book, The Very, Extremely, Most Naughty Asura Tales for Kids, to life through Shivlok Ke Kundakka Mandakka and introduce these stories to a whole new generation of young audiences. It is encouraging to see such large-scale platforms investing in stories rooted in India’s rich mythological heritage and reimagining them for children in such an engaging way. I hope young audiences enjoy following Kundakka and Mandakka’s adventures on screen as much as I enjoyed creating them. It is heartening to see these mischievous characters and their world find a new life through animation.”
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