The collaboration aims to blend AI technology with creative storytelling for film, episodic content, and advertising.

Collective Artists Network (CAN), India’s premier talent and media network, has announced a strategic partnership with Microsoft to accelerate AI adoption in filmmaking, episodic storytelling, and advertising. Leveraging Microsoft Azure’s advanced AI and cloud solutions, the collaboration seeks to enhance efficiency, scalability, and creativity across the content ecosystem.

At the core of this initiative is Galleri5, CAN’s technology studio, which has integrated Microsoft Azure AI Foundry as its foundational platform. This synergy combines Collective’s creative and production expertise with Microsoft’s AI-driven infrastructure to deliver secure, scalable, and innovative storytelling experiences across formats.

CAN is developing a slate of AI-powered projects, including Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, set for global theatrical release in 2026, and Mahabharat: Ek Dharmayudh, an AI-enabled episodic series for television and digital platforms. In addition, over 40 AI-driven micro-dramas are planned for major TV and OTT networks.

Galleri5 AI is also building mythology- and culture-based datasets to reimagine timeless narratives using Azure’s cloud and AI services, enabling streamlined production workflows from advertising to cinematic content. Earlier this year, CAN launched Trilok, India’s first AI-powered band, alongside virtual influencers Kavya, Radhika, and Kabir, showcasing AI’s potential in creative storytelling.

Vijay Subramaniam, Founder & Group CEO, CAN, said, “AI will not just assist filmmaking – it will empower creators with new tools. With Microsoft Azure powering Galleri5, we are building datasets, pipelines, and productions to support future AI makers globally.”

Puneet Chandok, President, Microsoft India & South Asia, added, “By combining Azure’s capabilities with Collective’s creative vision, this partnership will redefine cultural and creative expression, ushering in a new era of AI-driven storytelling.”