Ramayana re-imagined : an allegorical approach to adaptation : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand

Abstract

An allegorical method can be used within concept design as mechanisms of adaptation to facilitate the translation of an ancient Indian religious Sanskrit epic into a live-action science fiction film. The Ramayana is a popular text in India, and has been countlessly retold in different art forms, but adaptations outside of the mythological and fantasy genres are few. What writer E. Dawson Varughese (2014) calls ‘Bharati Fantasy’ (Indian Fantasy) addresses the differing perception among Indian and western audiences of content that draws heavily on the Hindu epics. The cultural references of ‘Bharati Fantasy’ will escape the reader unfamiliar with the epics. Expansion into the realm of science fiction film can address the limitations of its reception without compromising its cultural resonance. The philosophical exploration of consciousness and humanity framed in science fiction films such as Ghost in the Shell (1995), suggests that the ideas of the Hindu text can be aligned to this genre with minimal thematic alteration. To do so with authenticity is paramount as inclusion of Indian iconography and symbolism needs to cater to both audiences who ascribe to a belief in the narrative and the science fiction film viewership. A consideration of culturally specific symbols against those universally recognised frames the core research for the project. My role as Concept Designer is to negotiate the integration and purposeful juxtaposition of Indian iconography with a Science Fiction design sensibility by adherence to allegorical values for a live-action adaptation of the Ramayana. To that end, I intend to use character design concept art to explore this theme.