Even as the Indian animation flag is gradually being hoisted across the animation universe, there's quite some action happening on the home turf too. An Interesting angle to the whole thing is the emergence of the 'Regional' animation trend.

Kohlapur based Shri Swami Samarth Films has announced a sequel to its highly popular Marathi kids feature Mingo. The interesting thing about the sequel is that 'it's animated'.

Partnering the Kohlapur based producer is Sangli based animation outfit Oxygen Animation Studios which has been commissioned for the animation production which will be done in 2D (digital ink and paint) animation.

Speaking to Animation Xpress.com, Shree Swami Samarth Films Chief Anil Kashikar shared, "Our Marathi kids feature film Mingo fared handsomely at the box office. We are extremely confident that the animated sequel to it will be as much or even more popular"

On being asked what inspired him to opt for animation, the enterprising producer quipped, "Kids take to animation very naturally. Besides, the success of Hanuman has shown that Indian audiences are receptive to this medium and they are willing to pay to go watch an Indian animated film. We want to be the first ones to make an animated feature in 'Marathi'"

Sangli based Oxygen, the studio that has been penciled in for the animation production has been involved in quite a bit of regional animation development work recently. Commenting on this feature the studio's chief Dhananjay Wagh shared, "We are extremely proud to be the studio that is doing the animation production for the first animated Marathi film. Currently 22 artists are working on the project and we intend to ramp up soon"

Produced, directed and written by Anil Kashikar of Shree Swami Samarth Films, Kolhapur and animation directed by Dhananjay Wagh of Oxygen, the animated sequel to Mingo revolves around the alien, Mingo from Jupiter and his adventures.

The live action prequel had the likes of Himani Shivpuri, Ramesh Bhatkar, Deepak Shirke, Narayan Dulake and Apeksha Mundargi starring in it and was an out and out kids film. The film was screened in theatres across Maharashtra as well in schools on 16 mm.

"We have already started the merchandising of Mingo based on the first part such as pillows and other kid's products and also a forty page comic book. A flash based game called Mingo the Game has also been developed for which we are looking to tie up with publishers or else we shall release it under our own label."

Way to go!