'My Friend Ganesha' sequel set to release Aug 22

Mumbai, Aug 12 (IANS) 'My Friend Ganesha 2', a sequel to one of the popular animated features of last year, is ready and scheduled for Aug 22 release, and the director says that it has more westernised Ganesha.

'The first part was a hit among children. They were infatuated by the westernised Ganesha. In the sequel, the Ganesha has been given a more modern look and he speaks English fluently. Now, please don't ask me to reveal the plot,' said director Rajiv Ruia, who directed the part one.

Baba Arts Limited has produced the film and Shringar Films will release the movie worldwide.

One of the highlights of 'My Friend Ganesha II' is the bhangra pop singer and actor Mika who features in the film.

'When the song was being picturised on a street in Mumbai, a crowd of about 5,000 onlookers gathered there. Many of the children from the crowd joined in the procession and that made the scene look real,' said Ruia.

Ajhai Acharya of Baba Arts Limited says that the popularity of 'My Friend Ganesha' inspired him to make part two.

'The movie has been telecast 53 times on TV since its release in July last year. That itself is a proof of the fact that the concept was hit among children,' he said.

Besides the animated Ganesha, the cast of 'My Friend Ganesha II' includes Master Ali, Harsh Chhaya, Bhairavi Goswami, Suhasini Mulay, Sulbha Deshpande and Upasana Singh