What Inspired Gopi Puthran to Create 'Mandala Murder'?
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Synopsis
Discover the fascinating journey of Gopi Puthran and Manan Rawat as they unveil the creative genesis of 'Mandala Murder.' This unique series, merging Indian mythology with modern storytelling, dives deep into symbols and narratives that captivate audiences. Join the exploration of a world where mystery, horror, and tradition collide.
Key Takeaways
- Unique integration of mythology into modern storytelling.
- Symbolism is central to the narrative's depth.
- Character development through intricate plotlines.
- Explores societal issues relevant to contemporary audiences.
- Stellar performances from a diverse cast.
Mumbai, Aug 1 (NationPress) The creator of “Mandala Murder”, Gopi Puthran, alongside director Manan Rawat, has shared insights into the show's inception and its creative evolution.
This series draws inspiration from Indian mythology, Da Vinci’s notebooks, steampunk aesthetics, and classic comics, forming the very essence of its narrative.
Gopi Puthran elaborates, “While the story began as a thriller, we sought to delve into deeper realms. It’s that sense of awe you encounter when entering an unfamiliar world. My inspirations stem from the literature of my youth, dreamlike realms, Lovecraft, and Narayan Dharap. Ultimately, symbols emerged as our primary form of communication.”
Director Manan Rawat emphasized that the Yantra transcended its role as a mere prop.
He stated: “It evolved into the central figure of the series. Upon reading the script, I was reminded of the Phantom and Mandrake comics—this blend of nostalgia and creativity captivated me.”
Discussing the design journey, Manan noted, “Months of research were involved. Grounded in sacred geometry and sprinkled with global pop-culture references, we built the foundation around an octagon, featuring eight clues and eight sides. We drew inspiration from mandalas, mythology, and Da Vinci sketches, gradually bringing our symbolic universe to life.”
Gopi adds: “Individuals instinctively respond to symbols, so we integrated them throughout—the plot, the sets, and the costumes. The Yantra had to embody a machine with a spirit, something capable of channeling energy and perhaps even bending reality.”
“Insert a coin, and the gears turn, gates open. So far, we haven’t sacrificed any thumbs, but it’s genuinely magical,” Manan humorously revealed.
Mandala Murders is a crime thriller web series that debuted on Netflix, inspired by the novel The Butcher of Benaraz. Set in the fictional town of Charandaspur, Uttar Pradesh, it intertwines elements of mystery, supernatural horror, and psychological suspense.
The narrative follows detectives Rea Thomas and Vikram Singh as they delve into ritualistic murders tied to a clandestine cult, the Aayastis, and a mythical figure known as Yast.
Featuring a talented cast including Vaani Kapoor, Vaibhav Raj Gupta, Surveen Chawla, Raghubir Yadav, and Shriya Pilgaonkar, the series spans eight episodes, exploring themes of faith, betrayal, caste, and patriarchy, merging contemporary police procedural with occult elements.
Point of View
It is clear that 'Mandala Murder' represents a significant cultural intersection. With its fusion of Indian mythology and contemporary storytelling, the series not only captivates viewers but also invites them to ponder deeper themes of faith and identity. Such narratives are essential in promoting dialogue about societal issues, making it a must-watch.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Mandala Murder' about?
It's a crime thriller series on Netflix that explores ritualistic murders linked to a secret cult and a mythical entity, set in the fictional town of Charandaspur.
Who are the main characters in 'Mandala Murder'?
The series features detectives Rea Thomas and Vikram Singh, who investigate the supernatural elements surrounding the murders.
What are the themes explored in the series?
The show delves into themes of faith, betrayal, caste, and patriarchy, blending modern police procedural with occult practices.
Who created 'Mandala Murder'?
The series was created by Gopi Puthran, who is also the writer.
How many episodes does 'Mandala Murder' have?
The series consists of eight episodes.
