India’s ‘Mahamantra’ Bridges Ancient Wisdom and Modern Crisis, Teaser Unveiled
In an era where global upheaval dominates headlines, Indian filmmaker Girish Malik is stepping forward with an ambitious docu-drama that aims to offer ancient solutions to modern problems. “Mahamantra,” his latest directorial venture, is being presented at the European Film Market, and weaves together Vedic philosophy, contemporary science and urgent social commentary in what he describes as “a cry from the soul.”
“The genesis of ‘Mahamantra’ was born from the ashes of personal struggle and a world seemingly teetering on the brink,” Malik says. “Recent years have felt like a relentless assault — wars, environmental collapse, pandemics … a constant barrage of chaos.”
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The film, produced by Malik’s Clapstem Prods., marks a bold departure from Malik’s previous works, including his Netflix hit “Torbaaz” (2021) and the politically leaning musical “Band of Maharajas” (2024). This time, he’s tackling weightier themes, drawing parallels between Shiva’s cosmic dance and modern scientific theories, while incorporating references to historical figures like Oppenheimer and Einstein.
The project brings together an eclectic team of collaborators. At its center is narrator and host Dr. Arvind Lal, the executive chair of Dr. Lal PathLabs, whose book “Corporate Yogi” helped launch the film’s conception. “Our conversations ignited a spark, a shared vision to explore the ancient wisdom that seemed so desperately needed in our modern world,” Malik explains.
Adding sonic depth to the philosophical exploration is renowned tabla maestro Bikram Ghosh, whose credentials include four Grammy-nominated albums and the distinction of composing for India’s 75th Independence Day celebrations. Ghosh’s score aims to enhance the film’s blend of Japanese Butoh and Indian classical dances, creating what the production notes describe as a “powerfully symbolic” audiovisual experience.
The film’s timing seems particularly resonant. “We stand at a very steep rock,” Malik says, “where divine intervention, or perhaps a radical shift in collective consciousness, is our only hope.” The director sees “Mahamantra” as more than just another documentary — it’s his attempt to create what he calls “a sanctuary” amid global turmoil.
The film’s visual tapestry is particularly striking in its treatment of the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra, which Malik presents not merely as a religious invocation but as what he terms “a living, breathing force capable of reshaping reality.” This approach is exemplified in sequences that interweave quantum physics visualizations with traditional iconography, creating what the director calls “a new visual language for ancient truths.”
The production team includes contributions from leading philosophers, theoretical physicists and Vedic scholars. The film aims to serve as what Malik describes as “a bridge between Vedic science and the groundbreaking insights of modern thinkers like Einstein, Tesla and Carl Sagan.” This approach reveals what the director calls “the interconnectedness of everything, reminding us that by reconnecting with ancient principles — Dharma (ethical living), Artha (economic value and prosperity), Kama (pleasure and Desires) and Moksha (liberation from the cycle of Samsara) — we can forge a future of balance and harmony.”
The film’s treatment of complex themes is exemplified in its exploration of modern moral dilemmas. Drawing from the source materials, it examines the philosophical intersections between Shiva’s cosmic dance, Krishna’s role in the “Mahabharata” and the moral challenges faced by figures like Robert Oppenheimer. As Malik explains, “The film delves into the very heart of Shiva’s cosmic dance, weaving it with the strategic brilliance of Krishna during the ‘Mahabharata,’ and even the moral plight faced by figures like Oppenheimer.”
Production design plays a crucial role in realizing this vision. The film employs a sophisticated blend of practical effects and digital artistry to create what the production notes describe as “breathtaking visuals that evoke profound emotion and introspection.” This is particularly evident in sequences depicting the cyclical nature of creation and destruction, where Japanese Butoh dance movements are integrated with classical Indian choreography.
The film’s score by Ghosh also merits special attention. Drawing from his experience with Grammy-nominated world music projects, Ghosh has created what he describes as “a sonic bridge between ancient mantras and contemporary musical forms.” The soundtrack features traditional instruments alongside modern electronic elements, creating what early viewers have described as an immersive auditory experience.
Malik’s track record suggests he knows how to handle ambitious material. His feature directorial debut, “Jal” (2014), competed at the Busan International Film Festival. “Band of Maharajas” recently advanced in two Academy Award categories for best original song and best original score, while “Torbaaz” found success streaming in over 20 countries on Netflix.
Dr. Lal’s narration bridges the gap between corporate success and spiritual wisdom, drawing from his experience as both a healthcare magnate and a spiritual seeker. His presence lends credibility to the film’s efforts to reconcile ancient practices with modern life.
The production team has already secured translations in German, French, Russian, Italian, Spanish and Hindi, positioning the film for global distribution. “I’m not focused on a quick sale,” Malik says regarding the film’s market strategy, “but rather on a strategic release that maximizes its impact.”
What sets “Mahamantra” apart from typical spiritually oriented documentaries is its unflinching engagement with contemporary crises. The film doesn’t shy away from addressing environmental destruction, technological overwhelm, and social fragmentation, while suggesting that ancient wisdom might offer unexpected solutions to these modern predicaments.
“I don’t want the audience to simply watch ‘Mahamantra,'” Malik says. “I want them to feel it. I want them to leave the theater with a sense of profound introspection, a deeper understanding of the labyrinth within.”
The film’s presentation at Berlin’s European Film Market marks a significant step in its journey to reach international audiences. With its blend of philosophical depth, artistic innovation, and urgent social commentary, “Mahamantra” positions itself as both a timely warning and a hopeful prescription for a world in crisis.
Bollywood Hitmaker Girish Malik Charts New Course With Ambitious Slate
Malik is doubling down on his production banner Clapstem Prods.’ expansion, with a roster of high-profile projects in the pipeline. The Mumbai-based shingle, which also maintains outposts in Delhi and Goa, has emerged as a significant player in India’s entertainment landscape since its 1996 launch.
Malik, who cut his teeth as a television actor before transitioning behind the camera, has quietly built an impressive track record with over 1,000 hours of television content, three features and approximately 50 commercials under his belt.
The company’s development slate reflects Malik’s appetite for diverse storytelling. Projects in the works include “Punsari,” based on India’s youngest village head; “From Darkness to Glory,” chronicling a village’s transformation; and “Monty Master,” a dark tale of a musician’s downfall. The banner is also venturing into streaming with “Vishesh,” a paranormal series set in Banaras, and “Masakali,” a period romance set in 19th century Lucknow.
Clapstem’s television division continues to produce content across genres, with notable productions including “Rishtey Love Stories,” the military-focused “Mission Fateh,” and supernatural series “Haunted Hai.”
Through his triple-threat capabilities as writer-director-producer, Malik has positioned Clapstem as a content factory with global ambitions, while maintaining roots in distinctly Indian storytelling.
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