MUMBAI: Applause Entertainment is taking a bold leap into the world of kids’ animation with the launch of its brand-new YouTube channel, ApplaToon. Kicking off this vibrant venture is Kiya & Kayaan, a sprightly new animated series based on the Amar Chitra Katha Junior Library — and it’s dropping just in time for summer holidays.

Aimed at children aged 4 to 8, Kiya & Kayaan follows two curious siblings who stumble upon VR headsets and are transported to “Storyland” — a dazzling realm inspired by Indian mythology and folklore. There, they embark on whirlwind adventures, bump into mythical creatures, and pick up timeless lessons on courage, curiosity and kindness.

The show, directed by Sanjeev Sahoo, is co-produced with Popcorn Animation Studio, Prayan Animation Studio, Living Pixels and Warnick Studios. It premieres 25 April, with new episodes airing every Tuesday and Friday.
The launch comes as part of Applause’s landmark deal with Amar Chitra Katha, which grants the studio rights to adapt over 400 classic tales from the legendary comic book house. It marks the first time these cherished stories will leap off the page and into the YouTube generation’s favourite screen.

Said Applause Entertainment managing director Sameer Nair: “With ApplaToon, we're venturing into an entirely new creative space — kids animation and it's both exciting and deeply purposeful. This is not just a new vertical for us; it's a chance to shape young imaginations through powerful Indian storytelling. With Kiya & Kayaan, based on the timeless Amar Chitra Katha Junior Library, we're bringing heritage to the here-and-now, combining technology, mythology, and heart. YouTube gives us the perfect playground to do this at scale, taking Indian stories to global audiences."

Amar Chitra Katha president & CEO Preeti Vyas:  “For decades, Amar Chitra Katha has introduced generations of readers to the richness of Indian heritage through its iconic comics. We're thrilled to see our stories come alive in a new format with Kiya & Kayaan. Animation opens up magical new possibilities for children to engage with Indian mythology, folk tales, culture, history, and values. Our collaboration with Applause Entertainment is a step towards making timeless tales both accessible and  and exciting for today's digital-first kids."

From myth to mouse click, ApplaToon hopes to enchant the next generation of digital-first kids — and give nostalgic parents something to cheer for too.

Watch the trailer here: https://youtube.com/@applatoon?si=7DTW-qAIH-8U_hwL