NEW DELHI: Taking a cue from renowned fable Panchatantra, Moving Picture Company (India) Ltd is producing its first long format 3D animation series Jungle Tales. The series, expected to be completed by end of this year, will be marketed not only in India, but also in Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and North America.

According to MPCL, the 13-part 22-minute series is Indias first completely indigenous long format 3D animation series for television.

MPCL chief technology officer CB Arun Kumar said, Jungle Tales, inspired by famous tales of yesteryears Panchatantra, is being created considering the lifestyle of todays kids. We felt the narration and treatment of the story needed to be done as per the profile of todays kid, who is much more sophisticated.

Kumar added, "For instance, we have worked on a couple of characters who have mobiles in their hand and enjoy watching television. The stories will convey messages such as 'slow and steady' wins the race but with a difference. The values and lessons from such stories always attract children but we felt a need to drift away from the traditional way of story telling."

MPCL, which specialises in 3D animation, television software and documentary films, is targeting the particular segment of international audiences that has a liking for Indian films. "While our primary target group is kids, the stories make for fun viewing for the entire family. Our primary target audience comprises those who watch Hindi movies. If one can watch K3G at home, they are the ones who are likely to view Jungle Tales as well," said Kumar.

Besides animation, Moving Pictures television wing is renowned for its award winning documentary films including a recent 52-minute film shot in Afghanistan during the fall of the Taliban post 9/11. MPCL client list includes national broadcaster Doordarshan and Sony's MAX, for which it produces Current Bollywood, a cinema-based show.