7 Reasons Why Kurukshetra: The Great War of
Mahabharata on Netflix Is the Perfect Diwali Watch
Introduction
Diwali is a time for light, celebration, family gatherings and what better way to combine tradition with modern entertainment than a lavish mythological epic? Netflix’s Kurukshetra (Part 1) offers exactly that: a rich visual feast rooted in India’s greatest epic, the Mahabharata, served in an animated form that brings both grandeur and moral depth. Here are seven important factors that make it one of the best picks for Diwali viewing this year.
1. A Mythical Story to Match the Festival Mood
Diwali is deeply connected to stories of light over darkness and good over evil. Kurukshetra taps directly into that theme by dramatizing the 18-day war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. As one review explains, the series “brings India’s greatest epic to the world in a format that feels fresh, dynamic, and palatable for a new generation.” If you want a spectacle that fits the festive mood while being rooted in Indian cultural storytelling, this fits the bill.
2. Visual Spectacle & Animation Upgrade
One of the biggest draws is its visual ambition. Critics call it “visually rich and morally layered” and point out that the animation represents a “step-up for Indian animation.” For families gathering over Diwali, including younger viewers, the epic battles, weaponry, and stylised visuals offer immersive entertainment something beyond your standard holiday viewing.
3. Fresh Format & Narrative Angle
Rather than retelling the Mahabharata in a linear, familiar way, the series takes an interesting approach: “Each episode focuses on one warrior’s viewpoint before and during the war.” This enables deeper character insights and gives the war a personal dimension helping viewers reflect on duty, morality and consequence. On a festival of introspection, that adds substance.
4. Star-Power in Sound: Gulzar’s Narration
The language and narration elevate Kurukshetra in a special way. Poet‐lyricist Gulzar’s opening lines were praised for catching the tone of dharma and internal battle: “Hum aaj bhi dharm-karm ke usi yudh mein jee rahe hain…” His involvement gives the series a poetic gravitas ideal for a Diwali viewing where commentary and reflection often accompany the fun.
5. Cultural & Moral Resonance
Diwali often invites family discussions about values, heritage, and tradition. Kurukshetra engages with those bigger themes: honour, destiny, loyalty, the cost of war. One review notes the show “adds layers of realism and complexity to an age-old tale” by showing that even the side fighting for righteousness bears heavy human cost. Watching this opens up conversations beyond popcorn perfect for a family gathering where entertainment meets meaning.
6. Accessible Starting Point for Younger Viewers
If you have younger family members who know the Mahabharata story only in bits, this animated series offers an “easy entry point.” As one Reddit user put it: “It’s best suited for viewers who already have a strong grasp of the Mahabharata… but for others, it may help open the door.” The runtime of each episode (22-30 minutes) and the stylized treatment make it more accessible than a long traditional viewing, perfect for a festive binge.
7. Big Canvas for Family & Festive Viewing
With its ambition and scale, Kurukshetra becomes a “Big film” experience for streaming. The war, the gods, the philosophies everything is larger than life. A critic from First post writes: “The epic telling of Mahabharata sweeps you with its grandeur and imagination.” For Diwali, when many opt for family movie nights or extended viewing sessions, this animated epic offers something grand and memorable more than just another holiday flick.
Conclusion
This Diwali, Kurukshetra offers both spectacle and substance: a modern animated retelling of India’s oldest epic, with impressive visuals, poetic narration, moral depth, and family-friendly accessibility. Yes, it may have some flaws some voiceovers, pacing or animation quirks but as a festive special pick, it hits almost every right beat.