Nakamura Hikaru, the manga artist best known for Saint Young Men (聖☆おにいさん), has created a special commemorative illustration (描き下ろし) to celebrate the Japan theatrical premiere of the Indian film Kantara: A Legend (カーンタラ 神の降臨).
The film opens nationwide in Japan on June 5, led by Shinjuku Piccadilly in Tokyo. Its story captivated audiences with the ritual “Bhuta Kola” — a ceremony in which a deity descends into a human vessel, passed down through generations in the Tulu Nadu region of southern India.
A Heartwarming Special Illustration
In the illustration Nakamura drew, three characters share a warm smile: Buddha and Jesus, the iconic duo from Saint Young Men, alongside the deity Panjurli (Panjurli) from the film Kantara, all sitting together and relaxing in a cozy atmosphere.
Panjurli is a guardian deity of the land and nature, known as an arbiter of disputes and a guide to the people. Having this divine figure share a cheerful moment beside Buddha and Jesus creates a scene that is both heartwarming and deeply touching.
The Artist’s Thoughts
After watching the film, Nakamura Hikaru shared her feelings:
“The film’s final scene is truly, truly wonderful.”
Reflecting on how profoundly the film moved her — especially during the climax.
Source: natalie

