Character art - DQ Entertainment

© DQ Entertainment (Ireland) Limited.
A man-cub raised by a wolf pack and his escapades that reflect his daredevil spirit.
A smart boy with , sharp instinct.
So this is his world - The Jungle.... where he learns so survive against odds,
fight for his friends, overcomes tenacious enemies like
Shere Khan, Tabaqui and sometimes even people from his own clan.
104 x 11 Minutes,
1 X 60 Minutes, 3D HD
Target audience: 4-8 years
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What is it ?
Based on the great adventure classic by Rudyard Kipling, The Jungle comes to life in
104x11 min television series and a 60 min television feature in Hi-Definition CGI animation.
For Who?
The object of the series is to tell excellent adventure comedy stories to children between
the ages of 4-8 years old.
Who are the friends?
The stories unfold interesting tales of Mowgli The Man Cub, raised by a pack of wolves
in the lovely tropical jungle of Seeonee, Central India. Mowgli’s world includes his
formidable jungle friends; Baloo, a wise bear who is his mentor and friend, his best friend
Bagheera, a young Panther Canter and sometimes! Kaa the Python. Mowgli learns to
overcome adversity and progresses by using his initiative, quick wit and natural curiosity,
plus of course his constantly optimistic outlook on life.
Who are the enemies?
His main enemy is Shere Khan, the Royal Bengal Tiger who has despised Mowgli since
the time the boy was abandoned in the jungle as a baby and was taken in to be raised
by the wolves. As far as Shere Khan is concerned, humans do not belong to the jungles,
consequently the Tiger will do anything he can to get rid of Mowgli...... anything!
Raised by the wolves in the dense forest of Seeonee, Mowgli sometimes goes “Good
hunting” and ever so often is in turn hunted by the animals in the Jungle. He faces the
sneaky Tabaqui - The Jackal, who is sneaky and clever, but covers these traits with a
fake politeness. He comes into contact with the ‘Bandar-Log’ or ‘the monkey people’
who live on the tree tops in the forest and do not care about the laws of the jungle.
Phaona who is from the wolf clan and grandson of the Head of Council Rock - Akela
dislikes Mowgli to the lore and is against having the man cub in the pack. Mowgli even
faces danger from his own kind - man, yet learns to live by the Law of the Jungle.
What happens?
The Jungle Book explores the various escapades of Mowgli and his jungle friends in this
dramatic, funny and fast paced series where we will see Mowgli develop and learn to
survive in the dangerous jungle. Throughout the series other characters will be introduced
to maintain a constant source of storytelling. These will include other members of the
wolf pack (Mowgli’s grey and brown brothers); his wolf parents and other members of
the pack, plus Mowgli will make many other friends and enemies throughout the series.
The stories will also introduce several wild exotic species of animals to the backdrop of
the beautiful tropical forest, the ruins of beautiful Indian royal forts, temples, waterfalls
and the Waingunga River. The series will also portray Mowgli’s journey to the village
where he originally came from and will have stories of his encounters with the human
species. The combination of animals, humans and stunning locations will enable world
class British animation script writers to have enough material with which to work. Multi
talented voice artistes will be used to bring to life these well known and loved characters.
Drama, excitement, adventure, fun & emotion will be mixed with a high element of
comedy to tell tales of how Mowgli lives and survives in the jungle, where his only
companions are animals. This combination will lure viewers worldwide to this animated
series of The Jungle Book!
A Tribute to Rudyard Kipling......
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CHARACTER
SIZE RELATION
Baloo
4
Mowgli
Appu
Sherekhan
Langur
Bagheraa
Kaa
Baby
Monkey
Rikki
Tikki
Tavi
Ponya
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Main
CHARACTER
mowgli
is a happy go-lucky boy who spends most of his time
playing, exploring, eating and sleeping. He loves
to have fun and doesn’t worry about anything until
trouble actually stares him in the face. Fortunately his
instincts are sharp, he’s very smart and a total daredevil. He’d never survive his life in the wild otherwise!
His natural optimism gives him a sunny disposition
and helps him overcome all manner of adversities.
He’s courageous, confident and intelligent - a very fast
learner. Above all… he’s a CHILD. He has the quick wit
that (intelligent) children always have, and a highly developed
sense of observation, but he can be naïve and foolish at times.
He might seem a bit cocky, and he’s definitely cheeky, but he’s
always likeable; never nasty, mean or cruel.
He’s the only human who lives among the animals in the jungle - and
this makes him special. His curiosity and thirst for knowledge is typical
of human beings. He can do many things that animals can’t (e.g.
build objects, cook food, make fires, play music etc…). But he can’t
always compete with their strength, instinct and specialist skills,
like flying or seeing in the dark or smelling prey from miles away.
He wants to blend in with his animal family and friends but he is
conscious of the differences between them. His human traits may
come in handy, especially when problem solving, but they can
also make him feel separate and alien. It’s in these moments his
confidence can falter, leaving him vulnerable and lonely. This is
when he’s most at risk of the manipulations of devious animals
like Tabaqui and Phaona.
Having been adopted by wolves, he grew up in their culture of
strong familial bonds and deep loyalties. He doesn’t live in the
den anymore but he still hunts and plays with his siblings Bala
(grey brother) and Lali (wolf sister). He’s very protective of
them but he’s closer to Lali and more competitive with Bala.
His ‘parents’ Raksha and Daruka always knew he was an
exceptional child, and are proud of his unique intelligence,
keen sense of fair play and unshakeable allegiance to the
pack.
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Mowgli, like all wolf cubs, is taught the laws of jungle by the wise Baloo. He adores his
mentor but he learns things so quickly he does get bored during the bear’s long-winded
lectures. He tries not to fidget or fall asleep because he knows Baloo takes his teaching
responsibilities very seriously but... zzzzzzzzzz. It’s hard not to nap after several hours of
ruminations on ant colonies.
His best friend is Bagheera and they’re typical buddies; rambunctious and playful, full of
derring-do, and always game for an adventure. Not to mention the occasional prank...
His number one enemy is Shere Khan, the Royal Bengal tiger who has despised him
since he was abandoned in the jungle and adopted by the wolves. As far as Shere Khan is
concerned humans do not belong in the jungle. Consequently he’ll do anything he can to
get rid of Mowgli……anything! Despite this, Mowgli doesn’t hate Shere Khan. He knows
he’s dangerous, deadly even, but he sees him more as a nuisance and takes great delight
in foiling the tiger’s plots against him.
Mowgli is also bedevilled by Shere Khan’s sneaky stooge, Tabaqui the jackal, who’s clever
and manipulative but hides these traits behind a facade of false politeness. The BandarLog (monkey people) are maddening, too, because they love playing nasty tricks on him.
He even faces danger from his own kind - humans - who he regards with the same
wariness, fear and suspicion as all the other animals. It’s hard for him to understand the
nature of man when he’s never lived among them. All he knows is that whenever they
come around, trouble always comes with them.
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Character art
Baloo
is a big brown bear with a jolly and kind disposition.
He’s short-sighted and has to wears his glasses
otherwise he’s pretty much blind. In our trio of core
characters (Mowgli, Baloo and Bagheera), he’s the
only adult so his outlook is always more mature,
thoughtful and experienced.
He is very wise, slow but steady, strong but clumsy,
and hilariously inept when he tries to do anything
practical, like eat honey or catch a fish. But he’s
meticulous in his lessons, which he takes very
seriously indeed, and knows everything about the
jungle and its secrets. It upsets him sometimes when
Mowgli doesn’t pay attention to his lessons, but at
other times he’s so passionate about the subject
matter he doesn’t notice the snores.
He is not, however, a caricature of a boring old
teacher. He’s always full of energy and enthusiasm,
and enjoys adventures just as much as Mowgli
and Bagheera. But he has a guardian’s sense of
responsibility when it comes to Mowgli, and will
defend him against Shere Khan or any other threats
to his safety and well-being. He’s very fond of his
young charge and fiercely protective of him.
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9
Character art
Bagheera
is a powerful black panther, young, strong and supple. He’s
Mowgli’s best friend and is equally playful and adventurous.
Because they’re close in age, he will take sides with Mowgli
when Baloo goes into parent-mode and scolds the boy for
being a bit naughty.
He’s not as wise and mature as Baloo, and has been
known to instigate risky ventures without considering
all the consequences. But he supports Baloo
when the bear insists Mowgli pay attention to his
lessons on the laws of the jungle. That’s because
Bagheera knows these laws are crucial to every
animal’s survival. He’s just as protective of Mowgli
and will do anything to keep him safe - even if it
means sitting in on Baloo’s long-winded lectures.
Another thing he has in common with Mowgli
is a previous contact with humans. As a cub he
was the pet of the Royal family of Oodeypure
before he escaped from captivity and came to live
in the Seeonee jungle. In fact, he understands the
behaviour of humans better than Mowgli, and this
enables him to teach the boy about his distant kin.
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Character art
Sherekhan
is a majestic Royal Bengal tiger and the King of the Jungle... at least that’s what he believes. He’s a loner
by nature and a highly skilled, strategic hunter; huge and strong, silent when stalking and ferocious on
the attack. In Kipling’s original stories he had a limp but this isn’t a feature in our series.
He’s our main antagonist, having taken a vow to hunt Mowgli down, but he is not a man eater. Still, he
constantly breaks the jungle rule and chases Mowgli (as well as any other humans who cross his path).
Most other animals don’t do this because it puts all the animals in jeopardy. Humans react very strongly
and badly to attacks on their kind.
He is a carnivorous predator so many animals are potentially his prey - and most don’t stand a chance
against him. But sometimes, some apparently defenceless creatures can outwit him with luck and a good
strategy.
His chief target is Mowgli and he’ll do anything he can to get rid of him. Even if this means teaming up
with other ‘baddies’. He usually enlists the sneaky jackal Tabaqui to manipulate Mowgli and lay traps for
the boy in advance of his attacks. But he’ll also forge alliances with other malevolent creatures if it suits
him.
He thinks he’s very smart but is always outsmarted by Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera and Kaa. He blames
this on everything but himself. It’s always Tabaqui’s fault, or the help Mowgli & Co. get from other animals
and birds, or the sun was in his eyes, or whatever.
Shere Khan is obsessed in his hunt for Mowgli. Mowgli, on the other hand,
doesn’t wish to kill Shere Khan. He just needs to protect
himself from the tiger’s menace. The same goes for
the other animals. Shere Khan is very unpopular
because he’s a predator but their goal is to
avoid him, not get rid of him.
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Character art
Kaa
is a mighty 30 foot-long rock python, believed to be 100 years old. He is very powerful and very scary.
He’s also moody, irritable and prefers to be left alone. He’s especially cranky when he’s shedding his
skin. It’s easy to tell when this is occurring because his hissing manner of speech becomes even more
hisssssssssssssssssing.
He is never friendly. He has no sympathy for men or tigers or monkeys or anyone else for that matter.
He does not do favours. Unless there is something in it for him or he’s faced with a mutual threat - in
which case his motto is “the enemy of my enemy is my friend”. On these occasions he’s a formidable
ally. Mowgli, Baloo and Bagheera have all had reason to thank him for his timely rescues in the past.
He’s one of the few creatures in the jungle who could take on Shere Khan and win. He’s also the only
one the Bandar Log genuinely fear because they know they’re his favourite item on the menu. Only
Mowgli is unperturbed by Kaa’s fearsome reputation. He enjoys spending time with the irascible old
snake and even has the gall to tease him. Kaa will never admit it but he does feel a certain affinity for
Mowgli, even though the boy disturbs his sleep with his noisy ways and silly tricks.
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15
CHARACTER
RELATIONSHIP
CHARACTER
RELATIONSHIP
MATRIX
16
MOWGLI
BALOO
BAGHEERA
KAA
SHERE KHAN
MOWGLI
Considers himself lucky
and blessed to live in
the jungle. Understands
he’s different from the
other animals but feels
like a legitimate member
of the wolf clan and of
the jungle community
- most of the time. Can
be made to feel insecure
about his place in this
world by other animals
(i.e. Phaona and Shere
Khan). Like any child, he
wants to fit in, especially
with his peers, but it can
be hard keeping up to
their speed and strength.
Is proud of his human
attributes when they
help him achieve things,
but gets frustrated and
dismayed when they
make him stand out as
too different or limit his
ability to do things.
Adores Baloo, his mentor,
friend and protector, and
genuinely appreciates
his lessons but doesn’t
always pay attention
to them, or Baloo’s
parental guidance and
warnings to take care.
Will rebel against him
when he thinks the bear
is being too strict or
over-protective. Tries
not to laugh when Baloo
is being unintentionally
comical but sometimes
can’t help it. Likes to
tease him but in a goodhumoured way; never
maliciously. Knows Baloo
is a powerful animal
who can take care of
himself but still feels very
protective of him and
hates it when he gets in a
scrap with Shere Khan on
his behalf.
Considers Bagheera to be
his best friend, favourite
playmate and (sometimes)
a big brother. Has more
in common with him than
any other animal. Theirs
is a true friendship that
Mowgli trusts implicitly.
He’d do anything for the
panther, even lay down
his own life; knowing
Bagheera would do
likewise. Rarely gets
cross with him, except
when he takes sides in a
disagreement with Baloo.
Since Baloo often proves
right, Mowgli often ends
up apologising to both
him and Bagheera but
he doesn’t mind because
they mean so much to
him.
Has no fear of the
mighty snake but
takes care not to
get caught in one
of his squeezes.
Really enjoys the
old curmudgeon’s
company - the same
way kids like the
cranky old man or
lady down the street
because they’re funny
and kind beneath all
their puff and bluster.
Knows Kaa has a soft
spot for him, and will
let him get away with
the occasional prank.
Has come to realise
Kaa will help him
when he and/or his
friends get into trouble
but only if he’s offered
something in return even if it’s just a bit of
peace and quiet.
Doesn’t live in constant
fear of SK but knows
he’s always around the
next corner so tries to
remain alert and on
guard. Wishes the tiger
wasn’t obsessed with
hunting him down but
knows there’s nothing
he can do to change
his mind. Is under no
illusions that they could
ever be friends. Doesn’t
hate him or wish him
any harm but gets really
cross and upset when
the tiger threatens his
friends and family. More
than anything, this
brings out the ‘beast’
in Mowgli and he will
counter-attack SK under
these circumstances.
BALOO
Is extremely fond and
protective of the man
cub, and treats him like
a surrogate son. Knows
he’s unique, intelligent
and physically quite
capable but frets about
his recklessness, naivety
and vulnerabilities. Is
committed to teaching
him the jungle laws
and skills he needs to
survive in the wild. Can
get over-protective and
over-bearing when he’s
really concerned about
his welfare. Is always
amazed by his human
ingenuity and ability to
make and use tools, cook
food, make music, etc.
Tries to be tolerant when
he’s in a mischievous
mood but lays down the
law when it could get him
into trouble. Would fight
to the death to protect
him.
Considers himself an
expert on the laws of the
jungle and purveyor of
that knowledge. Happy
to teach his lessons to
anybody but is most
devoted to his student
Mowgli. Thinks he’s
expert in many other
things as well, especially
honey-gathering. Is not
aware that he’s comical
but good-natured about
it when it’s pointed
out. Knows his own
strength and ability to
fight but prefers to solve
conflicts peaceably
with cleverness and
diplomacy. Takes his
responsibilities very
seriously and sometimes
forgets how to lighten
up and just have fun though he enjoys that
very much when he does.
Relies on the panther to
help him keep Mowgli safe
and paying attention to
his lessons. Expects him
to be more mature and
responsible than the man
cub, and is occasionally
disappointed when he’s
not. Forgets that he is
still young, closer in age
to Mowgli, and can be
just as impulsive and
reckless, i.e. leaps before
he looks and acts before
he thinks through all the
consequences. What
Baloo can always rely
on is Bagheera’s loyalty,
sharp instincts and
ferocious fighting abilities.
If he and Mowgli do get
into trouble then at least
he’s well-equipped to get
them out of it.
Is well aware of the
snake’s ability to
squeeze the life out
of him and tries not
to get caught in a
hug - but it happens
a lot so he has lots of
practise in extricating
himself. Knows Kaa
has a special affinity
for Mowgli but doesn’t
point this out in case
he takes offence and
turns against the boy.
Will turn to him for
help but only if it’s
in aid of Mowgli (or
there’s something in
it for Kaa) because
he knows the snake
wouldn’t shift a single
scale to help him
personally.
Is not afraid of SK but
is fully aware of the
dangers he poses to
Mowgli and every other
animal in the jungle,
including himself.
Tries to avoid direct
confrontations but is
willing to take him on
in order to protect the
man cub and anyone
else who needs help.
Disagrees vehemently
with SK’s insistence
that Mowgli has no
right to live in the jungle
and should go back
to the human village.
Whenever they have
occasion to argue about
this, Baloo backs up his
case with the Laws of
the Jungle, even though
he knows SK has no
respect for them.
CHARACTER
RELATIONSHIP
MATRIX
MOWGLI
BALOO
BAGHEERA
KAA
SHERE KHAN
BAGHEERA
Considers Mowgli
his best friend,
favourite playmate and
(sometimes) a younger
brother. Is totally loyal
to him and committed
to keeping him safe,
though he’s not always
so good at keeping him
out of trouble. Believes
he’s unlike any other
human he’s ever met,
and therefore welcome
and entitled to live in
the jungle. Gets very
cross with any animals
that think otherwise
(especially Phaona and
Shere Khan). Loves
going on adventures with
him, as well as teasing
Baloo and Kaa with him,
and always tries to cheer
him up when he’s feeling
down or alienated from
the animal community.
Likes and respects
Baloo, especially for his
knowledge of the laws of
the jungle, but thinks he
can get a bit too serious
about it. Like Mowgli,
he tries not to laugh
when the bear is being
comical but can’t help it,
especially when Mowgli
gets the giggles - then
they’re like two naughty
kids in the classroom. He
knows Baloo relies on
him to help keep Mowgli
safe and paying attention
to his lessons, and tries
to do his best, but every
so often he rebels against
the pressure to be mature
and responsible, and
does something silly
and foolhardy. It’s the
teenager in him - and
like any teenager he
gets annoyed when
the authority figure (i.e.
Baloo) proves to be right.
But at least he’s mature
enough to apologise for
his mistakes.
Likes to think of himself as
fully mature, clever,
indestructible and a totally
awesome example of his
species - just like any
teenager! But he still
has some growing up
to do and skills to learn
before he fulfils his true
potential. Always tries
to be helpful and doesn’t
like to let anybody down,
especially Mowgli and
Baloo, Has a stout heart,
a noble character, wry
sense of humour, keen
sense of fun and spirit of
adventure. His early days
spent with humans gives
him an understanding
of their species, and the
ability to tell the good from
the bad. But he knows this
has ‘adulterated’ him in
the eyes of some animals,
and their prejudice makes
him feel even more
sympathetic and closer to
Mowgli.
Knows Kaa is
extremely dangerous
so always stays
well out of his way.
Doesn’t understand
his affinity for Mowgli
but is glad for it
because it means one
less nasty creature
is out to get his best
friend! Will turn to
him for help but only
when Mowgli is in
trouble or if there’s
something in it for the
snake because, like
Baloo, he’s under no
illusions about Kaa.
He isn’t a friend, just
an occasional (and
unpredictable) ally.
Intensely dislikes SK
because of the threat
he poses to his best
friend Mowgli. Isn’t
intimidated by the tiger
but knows he’s bigger
and stronger so the only
way he can defeat him
in a fight is with speed
and cunning. Couldn’t
care less what SK
thinks about him, and
is immune to his taunts
about being less of a
big cat for his contact
with humans. In fact he
thinks SK is a disgrace
to the feline community.
Can predict some of his
actions and reactions
because of their
species’ similarities but
feels no kindred-ship or
sense of loyalty to him
just because he’s a big
cat, too.
KAA
Hates the tiger and would
squeeze the life out of
him given the chance.
Hates the bear and would
squeeze the life out of
him given the chance.
Hates the panther and
would squeeze the life out
of him given the chance.
Hates the man cub
and would squeeze
the life out of him
given the chance except he doesn’t and
wouldn’t. For some
inexplicable reason
he likes the strange
little beast, despite
his noisy ways and
silly tricks. Kaa will
never admit this fact
to anyone but has
given up denying
to himself that he
enjoys their bantering
relationship. Still, he
has a reputation to
maintain so he puts
on a great show of
hating Mowgli and
trying to squeeze the
life out of him, When
he’s not helping him
and his friends out of
trouble, that is.
Is 100 years old and
therefore feels entitled
to be as cranky and
hateful as he likes. Feels
especially malevolent
when he’s shedding his
skin, and is extremely
annoyed when other
animals don’t empathise
or sympathise with
him. All he wants is to
be left alone in peace
and quiet, unless he’s
on the hunt for a meal
then any tasty creatures
are welcome to come
close and have a hug.
Is baffled by his own
tolerance of the man
cub, and willingness to
help him whenever he
asks for aid. Thinks it’s
a bit late and ludicrous
in his life to have his
first and only friend - but
that’s just how it is.
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CHARACTER
RELATIONSHIP
CHARACTER
RELATIONSHIP
MATRIX
SHERE KHAN
18
MOWGLI
BALOO
BAGHEERA
KAA
SHERE KHAN
Despises Mowgli (as
he does all mankind)
and is committed to
driving him out of the
jungle. Is often baffled
and always infuriated
by the man cub’s ability
to outwit him. This
fuels his obsession to
the point of madness
at times, leading him to
make rash moves and
mistakes he wouldn’t
do ordinarily - which
makes him even more
crazy with rage! It’s
possible that, deep
down, he admires
Mowgli’s survival
skills but he’d never
admit this to anyone,
especially not himself.
Despises Baloo and is
highly contemptuous
of him for taking a man
cub under his wing.
Mocks him for being
a ridiculous, foolish
clown but knows he’s a
powerful animal and a
tough one to beat in a
fight. Prefers to avoid
direct confrontations
with the bear but will
take a swipe at him
if he gets a chance and can escape any
retaliation. Sees Baloo
as the biggest obstacle
in his path (aside
from the elephants) to
getting at Mowgli so
he’s constantly plotting
to get him out of the
way.
Despises Bagheera for
being friends with a
man cub, considering
it a betrayal of the ‘big
cat’ code of honour.
Blames it on Bagheera’s
contact with people in
his cub-hood, which
he believes warped
the panther’s feline
sensibilities and now
makes him unworthy
of big cat status. But
he tries to avoid taking
him on in big cat fights
because he knows
Bagheera gives as good
as he gets.
Despises Kaa
because all snakes
creep him out and because Kaa
sometimes helps
Mowgli escape
his traps. Can’t
understand why
this deadly creature
helps anybody ever.
Will do anything to
avoid getting into
a fight with Kaa
because he knows
he’d lose - as much
as he hates to
admit it.
Sees himself as the
King of the Beasts &
Jungle; a majestic,
powerful and
exceptionally clever
cat. Anything that
contradicts this image
of himself makes him
livid and extremely
vengeful. In truth,
he is majestic and
powerful but he’s not
as clever as he thinks,
and is too consumed
by his obsession
with Mowgli to
always think and act
rationally.
19
SECONDARY
CHARACTERS
Hathi
Hathi is the largest and most respected inhabitant of the jungle. Approximately
100 years old, he’s one of the oldest animals in the jungle and the head of the
elephant clan. He represents order, dignity and obedience to the Laws of the
Jungle. In his youth he was the mightiest of elephants. He’s still pretty mighty but
is a bit absent-minded now.
Hathi is the true Lord of the Jungle. No other animal can defeat
him in a fight. So he’s often called upon by Baloo and
Bagheera to help when Mowgli is in danger. He’s happy
to oblige because he’s a friendly, if eccentric,
character. He lives within the borders of the
‘Elephant March Area’ with his family,
which consists of Gajjini - Mrs Hathi and their two sons Appu and Hita.
20
Tabaqui
Tabaqui is a sly and devious Jackal. He’s a scavenger and feeds on the scraps and
leftovers from other animals, in particular Shere Khan. He loves to stir up trouble and
spread rumours. He’s an unpopular character in the jungle, due to his mock cordiality
and allegiance to Shere Khan. He has no independence because he needs the tiger
in order to survive. In our stories, his eagerness to curry favour with Shere Khan,
and play one side against the other, often leads him into trouble.
Tabaqui acts as Shere Khan’s informer and is a constant danger to Mowgli. The man
cub knows him and usually does not trust him. However, Tabaqui is good at taking
advantage of Mowgli’s weaknesses, and exploits them to lure him into traps. He also
plays on is his ‘loser’ persona, which taps into Mowgli’s innate sense of compassion.
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Character art
Bandar Log:
The Bandar Log (aka monkey people) dwell in the Cold Lairs - an old
deserted city once occupied by man hundreds of years ago. They
have no rules, no laws and no leader. They boast and chatter and
play amongst the ruins, pretending to be a great people and not the
silly monkeys they really are. They don’t give a fig about the laws of
the jungle.
Masha
Big Bandar
They’re not really dangerous but they cause real problems for Mowgli and the other animals
with their mindless acts, foolish nature and anarchic behaviour. They’re the most annoying
species in the jungle, universally disliked, but comedy gold in the series.
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Cheel :
Cheel is a mighty eagle with a vast wingspan, razor talons,
a fearsome beak and telescopic eyesight. Despite his
predatory appearance, he’s a noble bird and often helps
Mowgli and his friends, especially when they need a high
flyer to get them out of a bind.
Darzee:
Darzee is a little bird who can’t hold more than
one idea at a time in her head. She has a nest
near the Friendly Area where Mowgli lives so she’s
often fluttering around him, Baloo and Bagheera.
She likes getting involved in their adventures, and is
surprisingly helpful despite her tiny bird brain. She’s
also great comic relief.
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Character art
Masha:
Masha is a female monkey. She thinks she’s
very clever but she is not. She pulls crazy stunts
and bosses everyone about. She’s foolish, silly,
reckless and, at times, dangerous, because of
her thoughtless acts. She adopts a haughty and
superior air whenever she finally gets the other
monkeys to listen to her.
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Raksha:
Raksha is a female wolf. She and her
mate Daruka adopted Mowgli as their
son, naming him “Mowgli” (which means
“frog” in the language of the Jungle).
She’s very protective of him, even more
so than her own wolf children. She’ll go
to any lengths to keep him safe, even if it
means taking on Shere Khan.
Akela :
Akela is the chief of the Seeonee wolf pack and presides over the pack’s
council meetings. It was at such a meeting that the pack agreed to the
adoption of Mowgli. Akela became one of his mentors and remains a loyal
supporter to this day.
Akela isn’t young but he’s still tough enough to maintain his position as
alpha male. He knows some of the younger males (e.g. Phaona) have
ambitions to usurp him but until that day
comes, he leads his pack with dignity,
fairness and a strong will.
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Character art
Phaona :
Phaona is Akela’s grandson and has been jealous of Mowgl since day one.
He does not consider him to be a true member of the wolf pack, and is always
scheming to get him kicked out of it. Like Shere Khan, he believes Mowgli should
live with his own kind.
Phaona also wants to take over the pack from Akela. This is why he hates Daruka
(Mowgli’s father), who is next in command and leader-in-waiting. Phaona will do
anything to get what he wants, including conspire with Shere Khan and Tabaqui.
Mowgli, on the other hand, considers Phaona to be family and is protective of him.
Ikki:
Sahi or Ikki the porcupine is a busybody
and a gossip monger. He’s interested in
everyone’s business and in passing on
rumour and hearsay, though he quite often
gets his facts wrong. Mowgli and Ikki spend
some time playing tricks on each other until
Mowgli falls into a nest of hostile cobras and
Ikki has to bring help.
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Bala - Lali
are the brother and sister offspring of Raksha and Daruka, and the same
relative age to their adopted brother Mowgli. Like all siblings, they can be
competitive and quarrelsome but, ultimately, they’re loyal and protective
of each other.
Bala
Lali
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EPISODIC
CHARACTERS
Appu & Hita
They are the son and daughter of Hathi, the chief of the elephant herd.
They live in the Elephant Marsh Area and are friendly characters who love
Mowgli and are on the side of Mowgli and his friends whenever necessary.
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Gajjini
is Hathi’s wife and a lovely, charming character. She adores Mowgli and treats him
with the same motherly affection she does with her two sons Appu and Hita. She’s
as wise as Hathi in her own way, and is a second mentor to Mowgli in the Laws
of the Jungle. It’s often Gajjini who convinces the mighty Hathi to help Mowgli.
She’s always gently reminding her absent-minded husband when he’s forgotten
something, which makes their relationship (and dialogue) very sweet and funny.
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Character art
Baby Monkey
Very cute, but unquestionably
mischievous, this young monkey loves to
play, and play and… play.
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Rikki Tikki Tavi
Rikki Tikki Tavi’s main character line is curiosity. He is
fast and has keen eyesight. His natural enemies are
the Nag (cobra) and Nagina (female cobra). Like any
other mongoose, he has the ability to sense the danger
represented by a snake. Despite his small size and his
funny little ways, Rikki Tikki Tavi becomes absolutely
fearless when confronting a snake.
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Character art
Ponya
“Ponya” literally means “bamboo eater”, which is
an appropriate name for this red Himalayan panda
who feeds on bamboo, fruits and grass. This harmless,
little animal is a total stranger to the Jungle: she arrived
accidentally, coming all the way from the Himalaya
where she originally lived. Mowgli and friends need
to explain everything to this new “tourist”!
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Langur
Langur is a big gray-whiskered monkey, always
full of curiosity. Langur leaps down from the trees
and swings off in graceful curves.
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Character art
Oo and Boo:
Oo and Boo are two turtle inhabitants of the Waingunga river. Oo is the
elder one and Boo the younger. Both Oo and Boo are quiet, harmless and
intelligent. They love napping on the banks of the river. Like most turtles,
they’re very sensitive to noises and are frequently disturbed by Mowgli and
his friends when they’re playing. Despite this, they like Mowgli when he’s
being less loud and exuberant.
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Jakala
is a huge crocodile that lurks in the dark,
slimy waters of the swamp. He has five
sons, Biter, Grabba, Chompa, Guzzleguts
and Nibbly (Colin).
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Character art
Rangoo
Rangoo is a colourful bird who Mowgli
startles in the tree tops as he swings across
the vines. Mowgli likes to tease Rangoo
because his reactions are so comical. He
may pretend he’s not bothered but he always
puffs up and indignantly flaps his wings.
Black Bees
These fierce bees live near the Waingunga, at
the top of the mighty marble cliffs. No one dares
to climb the cliffs because of the hundreds and
hundreds of bee hives up there. Only Baloo
knows enough about bees to distract them so he
can nick their honey. He also knows wild garlic
and water can save him from their stings.
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Daruka
Daruka is Mowgli’s adoptive father. He’s the one who found him abandoned in the
jungle and saved him from Shere Khan. He took Mowgli to his mate, Raksha, and
they instantly shared a liking for the man cub. Daruka is respected by the entire
wolf pack (except Phaona), and is next in command after Akela.
Black Cobra
Black cobra is hungry and poses a big threat to
the Wolf’s pack.
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SEASON-II
CHARACTER ART
Baby Turtle
The small baby turtles are the new ones in the family
who hatched on the island near the river. Very dear
to Mowgli, Oo and Boo, these young ones make their
journey into the river to start a new life.
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Bela
Bela is the female bear who is clever, witty and
knows what she wants. She is not a
friend to anyone but sides with wherever she
can see her own good. She is charming and
pretty and knows what to say to bend things in
her favour. She tries to play Baloo for a fool, but
is outsmarted by Mowgli
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Character art
Chappal
Chappal, is Chuchip’s mother. She is very
protective and usually cautious trying to keep
her calf safe from the carnivores
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Chota
Chota is a tiny tiger cub and thinks that the whole
jungle is his playground. He has a fine liking for
Mowgli and he is likes to play with him. The tiger
cub is very courageous for his age and never backs
down from anything. He is also very adventurous
and loves to take trips into the jungle, with or
without a companion.
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Character art
Honey Badger
Harjit, the honey badger is an angry animal. He
picks fights with everyone and doesn’t like anyone
coming to his territory. He doesn’t share his food and
likes to spend most of his time alone. He doesn’t like
Mowgli very much but he doesn’t harm him either.
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Rana
Rana is an angry wild boar who can be lead into traps very easily.
He gets used by Shere Khan very often and he can never decide
what he wants for himself. He is neither a friend nor an enemy to
Mowgli but both, depending on the situation that he gets into. He is
emotional and guilty conscious which is why he isn’t the antagonist.
He loves to eat and hates to share his food. He is the most friendly
when someone offers him some good food.
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Character art
Phoola
Phoola, a peacock always has the eyes for Meena.
He is constantly competing with Pavo for Meena
and usually fails at it. He has a big ego but that is all
he has because he is neither courageous nor is he
smart. He usually puts his own interests before that of
the flock but he isn’t an antagonist.
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PAVO
Pavo is a beautiful white peacock who has a
liking for Meena. Though he isn’t very smart, he
is very courageous and can do anything to save
his flock from dangers. He has a bit of a vision
problem but he compensates it with his courage.
He is a little of the jealous types and tries to
compete with Phoola all the time
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Character art
Meena
Meena is a peahen and she has the charm to choose her own man. She is very
pretty looking and has a secret crush on Pavo. She cares about her flock and
always tries to help them out of any trouble. She is intelligent and smart though
she doesn’t take into her own hands quickly
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Giant Squirell
The Giant Squirrel believes in gossip and just helps to spread
the word around the jungle. Not on anybody’s side, she believes
in telling tales whether they are right or wrong.
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Character art
Ravi
Ravi is the male counterpart of the blue
birds. He is more courageous and engages
in keeping the nest and the unborn safe.
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VIRA
Vira is the female blue bird who stays back in the nest and takes
care of the egg, keeping it warm and paving the way to get a
new one in the Sionee jungles.
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Character art
Chanda/
Mother Tigress:
Chanda is very protective mother tigress who has a little cub
called Chota. She is strong and courageous and doesn’t think
twice to take on the mighty Shere Khan. Though she doesn’t trust
anyone easily, she has a liking for Mowgli. She is friendly if her
son is not in danger and she is very caring.
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Alonya
Alonya, the crane, is the migratory bird that
comes to Sionee once in a while. She is friends
with Mowgli and she encourages him to fly. She
is a gentle, friendly bird who loves her flock and
loves to spend time in the jungle.
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Character art
Group poses
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LOCATIONS
Seeonee jungle
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The Waingunga River
The Waingunga River originates in the Seeonee hills about 12 km from the village of Seeonee, amidst the
slopes of the Satpura Mountains in Central India.
The river flows up to 360 miles before falling into the River Godavari. The story of The Jungle Book revolves
around the Jungle of Seeonee, the Seeonee village and the Waingunga River. The river has developed extensive
flood plains with sweeping and meandering terraces.
It has high banks on both sides, and is the primary source of water for all the animals in the Jungle on one side
of the river, and the humans’ Village on the other side.
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The Council rock at Wolf’s Lair
Wolf’s Lair is the communal area of the wolf pack, where each family has its own lair. As per the Jungle
Law, not even the Head wolf or the Council may enter a wolf’s lair without his permission. In the words
of Rudyard Kipling:
“The Lair of the Wolf is his refuge, and where he has made him his home, Not even the Head Wolf may
enter, not even the Council may come.
The Lair of the Wolf is his refuge, but where he has digged it too plain, The Council shall send him a
message, and so he shall change it again.”
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The Marble Cliffs
The Marble cliff / Bee Rock
Bee Rock is at the top of the cliff which hangs over the Waingunga River.
There are hundreds of bee hives here.
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Cold Lair
Cold Lair is where the Bandar Log live. It’s an old deserted city fort, and is called Cold Lair because
when any animal leaves its lair or den, the place is said to become ‘cold’. It has many chambers, open
water wells and un-explored areas.
Below the surface of Cold Lair are hidden chambers containing many treasures. Legend has it the
treasures were left by Kings and Queens who ruled centuries ago. Now they’re guarded by the white
cobra Thuu and his army of poisonous cobras and snakes.
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Cold Lair Interior
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Friendly area
The Friendly Area is a safe and serene haven for Mowgli, Baloo and Bagheera.
This is where they live, play, school, eat and sleep (in the trees).
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Friendly area pond
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The Temple Ruins
The Classroom
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Shere Khan’s Den
Shere Khan’s Den is twenty miles from the Waingunga river. He frequently breaks the law of
the jungle by shifting his hunting grounds without any prior warning. Tabaqui hangs around
the outside of his den, living on the tiger’s leftovers.
The Seeonnee Hills Village
The Seeonnee Hills Village is on the banks of the river Waingunga. It’s sculpted by terraced
plantations and rich fertile land. The village has an abundance of water, which flows down
the waterfalls from the higher ranges, and winds through the village into the Waingunga
river and beautiful Dalsagar Lake. The village gets its name from the Seona tree which is
commonly found in the area.
The village is typically Indian with traditional huts and neat, decorated courtyards. Each
house has cattle. Pottery, weaving and other handicrafts are the main livelihoods of the
villagers. There is an elected head of the local government, and the council area is under
a huge Banyan tree in the centre of the village. There is also a beautiful Temple of the
Goddess Kali at the highest point in the village, above the hill terrace plantation.
Village Grazing Ground
Village Grazing Ground is a vast area next to the Waingunga river and Dalsagar lake. Lush
bushes covers treachorous ravines, in which livestock herds sometimes disappear. Usually,
the water buffaloes keep to the pools and muddy areas around Dalsagar lake.
Cheel’s Nest
Cheel’s Nest is situated high up on the face of the cliff that rises above the wolf council rock.
It’s made of twigs and is a large, impressive structure.
The Swamp
The Swamp is the crocodile Jakala’s home. He lives here with five of his sons. Dark and
brooding, it’s a sinister place full of thick slimy mud. Jakala uses it like classroom, teaching
his young ones how to use the murk and mud to entrap and catch prey.
The Gorge
The Gorge is the dead end of a ravine. It has rocks and shrubs scattered about, and a large
bush at one end of it.
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design elements
composites & Screenshots
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THE STORIES
BASIC POINTS
All episodes are self-contained and do not have a defining chronology. There is an A-plot and
a minor B-plot (usually comedic) in all of them.
This is an action adventures series with colourful characters, humour, drama, suspense,
emotion and generous lashings of visual comedy. For 5 to 9 year olds.
The episodes are short, simple, fast-paced and FUN. The viewers must be hooked within the
first minute. It should be clear at this point what kind of story we’re going to tell.
Our hero Mowgli is at the heart of every story, driving the action and solving the bulk of the
conflicts and problems. It’s through his perspective the stories are seen to unfold.
The viewers relate to Mowgli so he must be appealing and sympathetic. He’s the kind of kid
every kid likes being with - even when he makes bad decisions or misbehaves.
We need to care about all our characters and the challenges they face right from the start of
every story. Other humans are to be avoided as they diminish the uniqueness of Mowgli. If
they are necessary in a story then they should only be seen in the distance or in shadows.
We already have a large library of jungle animals so we’re not looking for more characters but
we will consider new ones if necessary.
The jungle is a place with an amazingly rich flora and fauna. Please allow time in your scripts
for moments of appreciation, and interactions between our characters and little creatures,
flowers, fruits, plants, etc.
The jungle can also be dark, creepy and dangerous but Mowgli always find sanctuary in
the Friendly Area, the main location of the series. This is a safe and serene place (with the
remains of a beautiful ancient temple in the background.)
Our stories take place in a jungle of Central India in the XIXth century. We don’t stress the
historical aspect but please keep this information in mind to avoid any anachronisms when
you refer to objects, props, techniques and any notions or knowledge the characters might
possess.
All the animals and plants are Indian not African (unlike in the Disney feature films).
The visuals are not cartoony (as in “Tom and Jerry” or “Tex Avery”). The series is based in
realism so the laws of physics apply. The characters don’t stretch and squash. The eyes don’t
bulge out, the tongues don’t stretch for miles... OK, the characters are animals who talk but
apart from this ‘detail’ they act like real animals. For example, Baloo can grab things in his paw
but the big cats, Shere Khan and Bagheera, can’t.
TROPES & THEMES
Please note our stories do not contain heavy educational or moral messages. Our series’
goal is pure entertainment but one theme runs throughout it: evil never triumphs over good.
Ipso facto, only good values like courage, friendship, loyalty and honesty will ever win the day.
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Another theme in the series is about belonging; to a place, to a family, to a circle of friends. It’s
a theme that affects Mowgli in many ways, and it informs much of the story-telling. But it doesn’t
weigh him down in the sense that he’s overly self-conscious. He’s too care-free for that kind
of angst. It just crops up now and then, e.g. when his place in the wolf pack is questioned (by
Phaona), or Shere Khan threatens to force him back to the human village.
Another theme is about teams and team-work. All of our characters are different and have
different skills. But they compliment each other and are stronger when they join forces and cooperate as a team.
Successful stories always have a clear theme. In Season One, the episode “Sleeping Python” is
about Mowgli overcoming his superstitions lack of self-confidence. “Treasure Of Cold Lair” flips
that same theme by turning a superstitious belief against human enemies. “Monkey Queen”
is about an impostor (Masha) who learns a good lesson about authenticity, and “Who’s The
Bravest” illustrates the theme ‘pride comes before a fall’.
STRUCTURE & TONE
We look for stories that have compelling A-plots, comic B-plots, narrative twists and turns, fastpaced action and unexpected events in order to keeps things moving long, suspenseful, and
sparkling with humour and visual comedy.
Remember the audience this show is for: 5 to 9 year olds. These viewers are more sophisticated
than pre-schoolers so the stories we’re telling them should never be too simplistic or young.
They can handle concepts with considerable intellectual and emotional depth. They also know
a cliché or a plot hole when they see one. Keep it real, fast, funny, unpredictable and exciting
or they’ll switch over the channel.
HUMOUR & COMEDY
Writers should give scope for visual comedy to the show’s Directors. Comic relief and sight
gags are very important factors in the scripting and storyboarding. Of course some characters
generate more laughs than others. For example, the feather-brained Darzee and the anarchic
Bandar Log are naturally funny so they’re good characters to use (judiciously) in the stories.
On the other hand, Mowgli, Baloo and Bagheera are less likely to generate comedy. They do at
times but they’re complex characters and not designed for comic relief. However, they can and
should be good-humoured and humorous in their dialogues, behaviours and actions. The same
goes for many of our other characters who don’t fulfil a purely comic purpose.
DRAMA & EMOTION
The original Jungle Book stories were chock full of drama and emotion. This is what gave them
their depth and long-lasting appeal. Readers genuinely cared about Mowgli and his friends.
They really feared Shere Khan. They were moved by the love and loyalty between Mowgli
and his adopted wolf family. And they were always amazed and thrilled by Mowgli’s bravery,
ingenuity and indomitable spirit in the face of danger.
So don’t be shy about injecting your stories with real emotions and high drama. It’s what makes
a good story utterly compelling.
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