We made big win at Ann Awards 2024, organised by AnimationXpress. In a starlit show attended by the Who is Who of the Animation Industry, we bagged the Best 3D Animated Series International for Pirate Academy and Best Animated Full-Length Feature Film International for Bartalis’s Bicycle. In recognition of its 25 years of scintillating history of pioneering many innovations in the field, Toonz Media Group was also specially recognised for Outstanding Contribution to the Animation Industry.
The Jay Jagannath series, created and produced by Ele Animation in collaboration with Toonz media Group and broadcasted by Warner Bros.Discovery India POGO, bagged Best 2D Animates series and Best Title song awards too.
Toonz Media Group has announced partnership with renowned Animator and producer Keika Lee of Greyscale Animation for a 2D animated series based on her award winning short film, Odd Dog. The upcoming series, aimed at preschoolers, follows the heartwarming adventures of Obi, a cat who identifies as a dog, and Eli, a quiet and serious little boy who has always wanted a canine companion. When Obi and Eli meet, their unique personalities shine through as they navigate a world full of humour, love, and life lessons. The 13-episode, 7-minute series explores themes of individuality, identity, and acceptance, delivering a powerful message: it's okay to be different. The show emphasizes how we can make an impact in the world without losing sight of who we truly are. : “Keika Lee is one of the top animation talents in the world today, and her work has already made a lasting impression. We are thrilled to bring our expertise and help her take Odd Dog to the next level”, said P. Jayakumar, CEO, Toonz Media Group.
Vegas Fest 2024, organised by Tamilnadu Visual Effects-Game-Animation Society (VEGAS) had Toonz Media Group CEO, P.Jayakumar, as one of the panelists on their discussion on the topic, 'Key advantages for the AVGC sector in fostering government collaboration'. The discussion was moderated by Sanjay Khimsera, of the Khimsera Institute of Visual Media and Design. Other speakers included Veloces AVGC education management Puneet Sharma, Guidance Tamil Nadu associate VP Kuhan Madhan and educationist and mediaprenueur ABAI S Srinivas. The 3000 plus footfall the event saw, on the first day itself, is a testimony of the increased interest in the sector. The event was also graced by Dr.L Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
September was a month of happiness and celebrations. As is our custom we celebrated Onam, in all its grandeur. We had beautiful Pookkalam adorning our 2D and 3D sections and we had a floral recreation of our logo as well. Mahabali came in to wish all of us and ensured that we are living in prosperity and contentment. Our CEO , P Jayakumar gave Onam message, and he recounted how Onam is a reminder of all the traditions and customs we practised. It is also an ode to our rich cultural heritage. Toonzians joined in the celebration with songs and traditional Thiruvathira. Even non malayalees joined in singing Malayalam songs and imbibed the Thiruvathira steps perfectly. Traditional Puli and the hunter also added colour to the festival. What is Onam without the traditional Onasadya! Toonzians sat together and had a perfect Sadya in plantain leaves. It began with parippu(lentils) and ghee pored over piping hot rice, then sambar avial, pachhadi, kichadi, olan and koottukari. The star of the Sadya were the Payasams, with boli and Paalada stealing the show. Sadya traditionally ended with Kaalan and Rasam.
It was a pleasure for the eyes to see all the Toonzians dressed in traditional Kasavumund and Set Saree. The Human Resources Department had arranged a contest for Malayali Manka and Kerala Sreeman. Toonzians were required to send in photos of themselves in traditional wear to HR department. After a tough competition, Revathy S from Vizdem was crowned Malayali Manka and Ejas B Ahamed from HR department was crowned Kerala Sreeman.
Toonz Academy celebrated Onam on September 11th with vibrant festivities. Staff and students created a stunning pookalam. Students meticulously planned and executed a variety of entertaining programs including songs, dances, and skits. The occasion provided an excellent opportunity to showcase their talent. The event culminated with an excellent Onasadya, leaving everyone with joyful memories to cherish.
Toonz Academy participated in SkillScape 2024, a national workshop on "Navigating the Future of Higher Education and Skilling," held at IIT Madras on September 2nd. Vinod, Head of Academics at Toonz, represented academy at the event. The day also saw the signing of the SWAYAM Plus industry MOU.
Toonz Academy organized a one-day workshop on 'Effects Animation Using Houdini' on September 7th, held at Travancore Hall, Technopark. The workshop was led by Biswajit Tarafdar, Effects Supervisor, and Rakesh Herurkar, Lead Effects Artist from The Mill, Bangalore. The session featured hands-on exercises, case studies, and live demonstrations, with participation from students and staff from our studio.
