A mythical saga with missed opportunities
Season 4 of The Legend of Hanuman consists of seven episodes, each with an average runtime of 22 minutes. The series opens with a thoughtprovoking voiceover stating, “Jo dharma ka raksha karta hai, dharma uska raksha karta hai,” translating to, “Those who protect one’s religion, the religion protects them.” Unfortunately, this powerful assurance does not seem to align with the un- folding narrative of the season.
In this new season, the storyline promises to delve into Hanuman’s journey of self-discovery and inner strength while presenting a grand conflict against Ravan’s army, as he confronts Ravan’s brother Kumbhkaran and Ravan’s sons Indrajit, and Ahiravan.
Despite its potential, Season 4 falls short in several areas. The screenplay is confusing, leading to a disjointed narrative that does not do justice to Hanuman, a central and revered figure in the Ramayana. Known for his unwavering devotion to Rama, Hanuman’s portrayal here feels lackluster and overshadowed by the emphasis on Ravan and his kin.
The series showcases Kumbhkaran’s monstrous power and his willing sacrifice, alongside Indrajit’s cunning schemes and Ahiravan’s dark plans. Hanuman and the vanar sena’s efforts to thwart these threats form the crux of the season. The narrative underscores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the power of unwavering devotion. Through Hanuman’s journey, the series aims to highlight that true strength lies in conviction and compassion.
Visually, the battles are impressive and serve as a backdrop for the story’s deeper themes. However, the series follows a formulaic approach, prioritizing action sequences over emotional depth. The over-the-top background score, intended to amplify the epic nature of the story, instead becomes an auditory distraction.
One significant drawback is the narrative perspective. Told mostly from Ravan’s point of view, the story feels passive and verbose. Hanuman’s heroic deeds are often mentioned rather than shown, detracting from his legendary stature. For instance, Hanuman is praised for spreading light in darkness, yet these acts are not visually represented, leaving viewers wanting more of his valorous actions.
The language used in the series is another hurdle. The dialogues are high-handed and the vocabulary so pure that it may alienate ordinary viewers. This linguistic choice, while perhaps authentic, makes the series less accessible.
On a positive note, the voice cast excels in their roles. Sharad Kelkar’s distinct bass voice brings a commanding presence to Ravan’s character. Damandeep’s portrayal of Hanuman and the rest of the voice actors breathe life into the animated characters, providing a semblance of engagement amidst the flawed narrative.
In conclusion, “The Legend of Hanuman Season 4” is a visually stunning but narratively disappointing addition to the series. While it captures the grandeur of epic battles and the essence of duty and devotion, it misses the mark in storytelling and character portrayal. The series remains functional, buoyed by an exceptional voice cast, but ultimately leaves fans of Hanuman longing for a more compelling and coherent depiction of their beloved deity.