In a major distribution milestone for Indian animation, Cartoon Network has acquired PowerKids Entertainment’s The Jungle Book animated series for the Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) region, with all four seasons set to join the network’s programming slate from 12 October 2026.
The acquisition brings PowerKids Entertainment’s long-running animated adaptation of The Jungle Book to Cartoon Network audiences across the region, further expanding the international footprint of a franchise that has reached audiences in more than 165 countries.
The deal marks another significant step in the evolution of The Jungle Book, which has grown from a 3D CGI animated series into a broader franchise spanning television, digital platforms, Fast, licensing, consumer products and experiential entertainment.
Warner Bros. Discovery head of factual entertainment, lifestyle and kids – South Asia Sai Abishek, said, “Cartoon Network has been home to iconic storytelling in the region for over three decades, and we are building on that legacy with greater ambition. PowerKids Entertainment’s The Jungle Book brings to life a story that has stayed with kids across generations, blending adventure, friendship and courage for families to enjoy together. This acquisition adds a culturally familiar classic to our portfolio of global and local favourites and reinforces Cartoon Network as a destination that gives every child a compelling reason to tune in every day.”
PowerKids Entertainment CEO & managing director Manoj Mishra said, “We are delighted to see all four seasons of The Jungle Book acquired by Cartoon Network for the SAARC region. This is an important milestone for the franchise, and we look forward to seeing Mowgli’s journey reach audiences through Cartoon Network from 12 October.”
A franchise that has continued to grow
The journey of The Jungle Book with PowerKids Entertainment spans more than a decade. The 3D CGI series introduced a new generation to Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera, Shere Khan and the wider jungle family, before expanding across four successful seasons, television specials and complementary formats. Industry reporting has documented more than 26 billion views across platforms, while the property has reached audiences in more than 165 countries.
Over the years, the franchise has moved beyond screen entertainment into a wider commercial ecosystem. Partnerships with brands including Burger King, Cadbury Gems and Dairy Milk Lickables have brought the characters into consumer environments, while PowerKids’ partnership with Market Plush has extended the property into physical merchandise in selected European markets.
The franchise has also expanded into experiential entertainment through character-led activations and mall promotions across destinations including Dubai, Lulu Mall and Galleria Mall, allowing audiences to engage with the world of The Jungle Book beyond the screen.
On the television side, the property has adapted to changing viewing habits through a dedicated Jungle Book Fast channel on Samsung TV Plus, alongside the wider PowerKids presence on platforms including JioTV and Swift TV.
The result is a property that increasingly operates not simply as an animated series, but as a global franchise ecosystem.
Building the next generation of The Jungle Book
The franchise’s longevity has been driven by its ability to evolve while retaining the characters audiences already know.
Adventures of Akira & Mowgli – The Jungle Book Adventures, a 52 x 11-minute action-adventure-comedy series, introduces Akira, a fearless young girl who enters the Seonee jungle and becomes part of Mowgli’s world. Developed through an international partnership ecosystem involving PowerKids Entertainment, beIN MEDIA GROUP, DeAPlaneta Entertainment, Telegael, TwelveP Animation and Wall Peeps, the series expands the universe through a new protagonist and a new generation of adventures.
With Little Mowgli, the franchise is moving in another direction, targeting Gen Alpha and Gen Beta audiences.
The preschool series introduces Mowgli at the beginning of his journey, creating a new entry point into a character whose appeal has crossed generations.
“Little Mowgli is particularly exciting because it brings us closer to the very beginning of Mowgli’s journey and allows us to connect with preschool audiences. Bringing the completed series, new music and the wider Jungle Book franchise to Mipcom gives us an opportunity to share not only where the property has been, but where it is going.”
The Jungle Book continues to evolve
At the centre of the franchise remains the same character audiences have known for generations: Mowgli. But the world around him continues to expand.
From the original animated series to Jungle Book Safari and television specials; from new characters such as Akira to the preschool world of Little Mowgli; from television and YouTube to Fast and connected TV; and from global brand collaborations to merchandise and experiential activations, The Jungle Book continues to find new ways to reach audiences.
The Cartoon Network acquisition adds another significant chapter to that journey, bringing all four seasons of the series to audiences across the Saarc region from 12 October 2026.
For PowerKids Entertainment, the deal represents more than another broadcast placement. It reinforces the continued evolution of The Jungle Book, from a timeless story and animated series into a global franchise capable of reaching multiple generations, platforms and markets.
