Sony LIV, the Indian streaming service owned by Sony Pictures Networks India, has commissioned an animated series titled The Legend of Karna, produced by Sharad Devarajan and Jeevan J. Kang through their studio Graphic India. The show, based on a central figure from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, marks a deeper push into animation for the platform and is set to premiere on 31 July 2026. It matters as part of a broader trend of Indian streamers investing in high-profile mythological and animated content to draw local and diaspora audiences.

The series follows Karna, son of Kunti and the Sun God Surya but raised by a charioteer, whose exceptional archery skills lead him into a royal tournament and ultimately reshape an empire, exploring themes of birth, merit and loyalty. Devarajan, sometimes dubbed "the Indian Stan Lee" for his past collaboration with the Marvel legend, has a track record including Netflix's The Archies, Disney+ Hotstar's The Legend of Hanuman, the Spider-Man India character, and projects with SS Rajamouli's Baahubali franchise. Sony LIV, known for originals such as Rocket Boys and Scam, continues to expand its slate alongside other recent acquisitions like Aamir Khan's Sitaare Zameen Par.