Maya: A New Mythology Beyond India's MCU
Filmmaker Anand Gandhi and designer Zain Menon are embarking on an innovative journey with their project, Maya. This ambitious venture aims to redefine storytelling beyond the typical hero-versus-villain narrative. Instead, it delves into complex human themes, exploring ideas of truth, control, and human potential in the modern world.
Maya is not just a single product; it's an interconnected universe comprising films, stories, games, and immersive experiences. The first release, a novel titled "MAYA: Seed Takes Root," is narrated by the acclaimed actor Hugo Weaving, known for his roles in movies like The Matrix and Lord of the Rings. This collaboration represents a long-standing admiration from both Gandhi and Menon towards Weaving's work.
In an exclusive conversation, Anand Gandhi expressed that the idea of Maya emerged from their extensive creative partnership spanning over a decade. He emphasized the transformative power of stories, stating, "We were wondering if our stories made the world ever so slightly better." This philosophy guided them in creating a universe that goes beyond entertainment to provoke thought and inspire change.
One of the standout features of Maya is its approach to storytelling. Zain Menon explained that the traditional dichotomy of good versus evil often limits our understanding and engagement with differing viewpoints. In Maya, characters do not fit neatly into the roles of hero or villain; instead, the narrative shifts depending on the perspective of the viewer. This fluidity aims to foster empathy and understanding among audiences, encouraging dialogue rather than division.
The duo's journey to collaborate with Hugo Weaving has been a dream come true. Gandhi fondly recalled their meeting at the Sydney Film Festival, where they connected over their love for storytelling. Weaving's agreement to participate in Maya is a testament to the project's ambition and the deep respect both Gandhi and Menon have for his work.
Creating the world of Maya came with its own set of challenges, from intellectual and philosophical hurdles to the need for the right collaborators. Both Gandhi and Menon have worked diligently, pushing their creative boundaries to ensure that Maya is not only entertaining but also valuable in addressing contemporary issues.
As the trailer was released, comparisons to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) began to surface. However, Anand Gandhi clarified that Maya is not simply India's answer to the MCU. He envisions it as "the world's new mythology," aiming for a depth and scope that engages with profound questions about the human experience.
Ultimately, Maya seeks to elevate storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on what narratives can achieve in shaping culture and society. It stands as a bold new frontier in the landscape of global storytelling.
