Disney Channel acquires 'Ek Tha Jungle'

Disney Channel is all set to reintroduce the younger generation to the centuries old ancient Tamil literature- Thirukkural with the first ever animated TV series based on this celebrated text.

The series developed as animal fables by Accel Animation Studios, Chennai, is titled ‘Ek Tha Jungle’ and showcases couplets from Thirukkural - one of the most important and celebrated works in Tamil literature written by noted Tamil poet, Sri Thiruvalluvar. Each episode has a universal theme presented in modern day, 3D animated format.

Says Devika Prabhu, Associate Director, Programming, Walt Disney Television International India, "Disney Channel is committed to showcase evergreen stories that transcend generations and are locally relevant. ‘Ek Tha Jungle’ is one of the many steps that we will take to enliven Indian storytelling heritage which continues to remain thoroughly entertaining and equally relevant to modern day India."

Set for a premiere on Disney Channel on April 5, 2010 at 9.30 am (Monday to Thursday), every episode of 'Ek Tha Jungle' showcases a universal theme and strong life lessons. The stories are laced around strong ethics and family values with a moral that is applicable to the present and future generations.

"Our endeavor is to introduce the new generation of young Indians to some wonderful stories from our rich history, culture and heritage, presented in a modern day, relatable format", adds Devika.

Thirukkural is considered to be the first work to focus on family values in Tamil literature and has been translated into several languages across the world. Each story of Ek Tha Jungle establishes a ‘Kural’ (couplet) from Thirukkural told through animal characters in a visually appealing, entertaining way. Some popular stories include ‘The Clever Monkey’," The Helping Bear" and ‘The Rabbit and the Tortoise’.

Says N R Panicker, Chairman of Accel and Executive Producer of ‘Ek Tha Jungle’, "When Accel Animation Studios set out to create its own properties for Television media, we decided to embark on socially relevant subjects. There is no better way than adapting the evergreen Thirukkural to narrate stories to the young audience. We are delighted to partner with Disney Channel, to bring this classic work to the Indian audience."