Hanuman Ansh special screening for underprivileged kids on Friendship Day
Synopsis
Before its 7 August release, 'Hanuman Ansh' skipped the usual promotional circuit for something more meaningful — a Friendship Day screening for underprivileged children from the Angel Xpress Foundation. The kids' unfiltered emotional response to the film's teachings on humility and compassion may be the most compelling pre-release signal the makers could have asked for.
Key Takeaways
'Hanuman Ansh' held a special Friendship Day screening for underprivileged children from Angel Xpress Foundation in Mumbai on 2 August .
The film is reportedly based on the life and legacy of Neem Karoli Baba , portrayed by Shobhinaw Satyaa .
Industry figures including Rishab Shetty , Aanand L.
Rai , and Om Raut have reportedly praised the film after special screenings.
The #PayItFwd initiative aims to extend screening access to more children and families across India.
The film is directed by Vishal Chaturvedi and is set for theatrical release on 7 August .
Ahead of its theatrical release on 7 August, the spiritual drama 'Hanuman Ansh' held a special preview screening for underprivileged children and their parents from the Angel Xpress Foundation in Mumbai on 2 August, coinciding with Friendship Day. The initiative, organised by the film's makers, offered young audiences an early look at a story rooted in devotion, humility, and compassion.
Children's Reaction at the Screening
During the event, several children openly expressed their admiration for Lord Hanuman and spoke about how deeply they were moved by the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba, whose life and legacy the film is believed to be based on. The emotional response from the young audience underscored the film's intended appeal as family-friendly spiritual cinema.
What the Cast and Crew Said
Shobhinaw Satyaa, who portrays Neem Karoli Baba in the film, said: 'Hanuman Ansh is a film that every family can experience together. It beautifully introduces children to the teachings of Lord Hanuman and Shri Neeb Karori Baba, who inspired millions through their message of humility, compassion, and selfless service. In today's fast-paced world, these values are more important than ever. I hope every parent brings their children to watch this film, because along with an emotional and spiritual journey, they will also take home lessons that can stay with them for life.'
Writer and director Vishal Chaturvedi added: 'Watching these children connect so naturally with the emotions, values and spiritual essence of the film was incredibly moving. Their smiles and reactions reminded us why we made Hanuman Ansh in the first place. Through the #PayItFwd initiative, we hope many more children and families across India get the opportunity to experience this journey on the big screen.'
Industry Response Before Release
The film has already generated considerable buzz through select special screenings. Prominent industry figures — including Rishab Shetty, Aanand L. Rai, Om Raut, Adivi Sesh, Pranitha Subhash, Anand Tiwari, Manoj Muntashir, and Meera Chopra — have reportedly expressed admiration for the project. The positive word-of-mouth from within the industry adds early momentum ahead of the theatrical opening.
Film Details and Release
Presented by Swambhu Media Network, 'Hanuman Ansh' features Shobhinaw Satyaa, Vihaan Shedge, Chandan K. Anand, Purnima Tiwari, Anil Rastogi, and Gulshan Pandey in prominent roles. The film is written and directed by Vishal Chaturvedi and jointly produced by Ragini S, Namrata G. Singh, Anupriya A. Nagar, and Vishal Chaturvedi. 'Hanuman Ansh' is set for a nationwide theatrical release on 7 August.
Point of View
But it also reflects a broader trend of spiritual and devotional cinema using community outreach to build grassroots word-of-mouth before release. What is notable here is the early industry validation — names like Rishab Shetty and Aanand L. Rai carry genuine credibility in this space. Whether that translates to box-office performance will depend on how well the film's devotional tone travels beyond its core audience.
NationPress
4 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Hanuman Ansh' and when does it release?
'Hanuman Ansh' is a spiritual drama reportedly based on the life and legacy of Neem Karoli Baba, releasing theatrically on 7 August. It is directed by Vishal Chaturvedi and presented by Swambhu Media Network.
Who organised the Friendship Day screening and for whom?
The film's makers organised the special screening on 2 August for underprivileged children and their parents from the Angel Xpress Foundation in Mumbai. The event coincided with Friendship Day.
Who plays Neem Karoli Baba in 'Hanuman Ansh'?
Actor Shobhinaw Satyaa portrays Neem Karoli Baba in the film. He has described the movie as one that every family can watch together for its message of humility, compassion, and selfless service.
Which industry figures have praised 'Hanuman Ansh'?
Rishab Shetty, Aanand L. Rai, Om Raut, Adivi Sesh, Pranitha Subhash, Anand Tiwari, Manoj Muntashir, and Meera Chopra have reportedly expressed admiration for the film after attending special screenings ahead of its release.
What is the #PayItFwd initiative linked to the film?
The #PayItFwd initiative is an outreach effort by the makers of 'Hanuman Ansh' to enable more underprivileged children and families across India to watch the film on the big screen. Director Vishal Chaturvedi cited the initiative while reflecting on the Friendship Day screening.
