The Indian animators know it. Global players such as Walt Disney, Pixar, Imax and Sony also recognize the fact. So it was just the right time for people of Delhi to realize India’s potential in the field of animation. The latest animated film, Bal Ganesh, continues the buzz created by Hanuman about two years ago. There were several animation movies in the intervening period, which tried to cash in on the success of Hanuman, although it is only Bal Ganesh that managed to create and sustain the interest generated.

What’s more, the main protagonist of the movie, Lord Ganesha’s character, is in 3D, which really creates an exciting visual treat and the Delhi kids just love the effects. Directed by Pankaj Sharma, the film is pretty fast paced in the first half and depicts the transformation of the child into Lord Ganesha. The sequence that depicts the confrontation between Lord Shiva and young Lord Ganesha is captivating.

The other adorable moments in the first half include the Mooshak, the rat companion of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha keeps getting into trouble with his mother and blames Mooshak for his follies, which creates some real fun moments in the movie. Delhi kids are especially delighted by some of the most rollicking moments shared by young Ganesha and Mooshak around Kailash Parvat.

Although Shemaroo did not promote the film in Delhi as enthusiastically as it did in other cities, kids and the young at heart are not complaining, completely satisfied as they are with the engrossing entertainment served in the theatre. In fact, the film had generated considerable interest even before it was released, as the young Lord Ganesha’s character had already struck a chord with the Delhi kids.

The second half of the film in general, and the climax in particular, could have been a lot better with some slick editing. Also, please don’t expect animation of the standard of Antz or Finding Nemo. Let’s be realistic, we are not there yet, but the flow of storytelling is captivating, to say the least.