Shiv Sagar: Reviving Mythology with Innovation and Tradition

Shiv Sagar, the head of Sagar World Multimedia, is a name synonymous with Indian mythology and epic storytelling. Hailing from a lineage that has left an indelible mark on the television landscape with iconic productions such as "Ramayan," "Shri Krishna," and "Vikram Aur Betal," Shiv is now at the helm of innovative projects that continue to reshape the genre. With ongoing shows like "Kakbhushundi Ramayan" and "Kaamdhenu Gaumata," he reflects on the family legacy and the evolving nature of mythological storytelling.

Recalling his childhood memories, Shiv shares, "I was 10 years old when 'Ramayan' was being aired on television. We would visit the sets and sometimes even become junior artists when small kids were not available for production or were too expensive." He acknowledges the profound impact of those experiences, stating, "At that point in time, we didn’t realize the impact all this would have on the country and the world, but now, when we look back, we see what an important milestone it was."

The Sagar family, particularly his late grandfather, Dr. Ramanand Sagar, played a pivotal role in popularizing these epic tales. Shiv expresses admiration for the creative team that worked tirelessly to bring these stories to life: "One cannot deny the impact, awe, and admiration one develops for the creative people in the house who worked day and night to make this possible."

Currently, Sagar World is airing "Kakbhushundi Ramayan" on DD National, which delves into a conversation between Kakabhushundi and Garuda, both ardent devotees of Lord Rama. "When DD approached us to make 'Ramayan' again, we were excited. The grace of Lord Ram has always been in the family. We know our job very well and felt we could create something no one else would be able to," Shiv emphasizes the confidence and expertise that runs through the Sagar lineage.

In addition to "Kakbhushundi Ramayan," Sagar World has also launched "Kaamdhenu Gaumata," a unique show highlighting the cultural significance of cows in Indian society. "Kaamdhenu Gaumata is such a unique project that as a creative person, I felt instantly drawn towards it," Shiv explains. He notes the emotional connection many Indians have with cows, stating, "In India, a cow is not just an animal but an emotion."

Despite the show's originality, Shiv admits that working with real animals presents challenges. "Shooting with an actual cow we bought in Vadodara and making her act was a very difficult task," he reveals. To overcome these hurdles, a 3D model of the cow was created to facilitate complex stunt and action sequences, showcasing a blend of technology and tradition.

As Shiv Sagar continues to navigate the landscape of mythological storytelling, his commitment to innovation, authenticity, and cultural heritage remains steadfast. With a focus on creating original content that resonates with audiences, he stands as a beacon of creativity in a genre often criticized for rehashing old stories. As he moves forward, his vision promises to inspire future generations to explore and celebrate the rich tapestry of Indian mythology.