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Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has recently released a graphic novel called Atharva: The Origin. The first copy of the book was presented to veteran actor Rajnikanth. The graphic novel will be released on the market around April 18, 2022. The book is authored by music composer and writer Ramesh Thamilmani.
The co-collaborators on the project Virzu Studios and MIDAS Deals Pvt ltd also released an official trailer on their YouTube Channel on 24 February 2022. Atharva is a story of a warrior leader portrayed by Captain Cool MS Dhoni.
While discussing the project, Dhoni talked about his excitement towards the story and its medium. He said, “I am thrilled to be associated with this project and it is indeed an exciting venture. Atharva - The Origin is a captivating graphic novel with an engaging story and immersive artwork. Author Ramesh Thamilmani’s attempt to launch India’s first mythological superhero with a contemporary twist will leave every reader wanting for more.”
Ramesh Thamilmani, author of Atharva, in an interview with The Hindustan Times, discussed why Thala Dhoni was his choice for the graphic novel. He said, “Since the scale is big, we wanted a big name to take it to the next level. And MSD was the right person. We always wanted him but getting him on board felt like a distant dream.”
“Being a real-life hero, he is the perfect fit for the character of a superhero in the novel. He didn’t only give us his face but also collaborated with us in a big way. He contributed to an extent which we never expected.” added Thamilmani.
Ramesh also hopes that the book will transport its readers to a new dimension with a ‘new-age graphic novel’. He also talked about how the team had to bring stunt masters to choreograph the actions sequences in the story. He said, “We’ve created 3D models of characters. We hired stunts men to show us action sequences and draw them. It was a time-consuming process and was more like pre-production for a film.”
He also talked about the possibility of films and video games being made based on the reception received by the book. He said, “There’s a plan. The book has to be received well and currently, we’re concentrating on it. We would want to foray into merchandising and gaming too,”
