Netflix entered the anime market in the late 2010s after noticing the growing demand for anime series across the globe. Ever since its official entry into the space, it has acquired the streaming rights for multiple anime titles like One Piece, Seven Deadly Sins and more. It has also produced multiple live-action adaptations of popular anime series such as Full Metal Alchemist and One Piece.
However, not every venture into the anime world has been great for the streaming giant. An example of an anime series that landed Netflix in hot water with the Hindu community is Record of Ragnarök. The 2021 anime series, which is based on the manga by Shinya Umemura, sparked discussions around its portrayal of Lord Shiv, leading to its abrupt removal from Netflix, igniting debates over cultural sensitivity and censorship.
Overview of Record of Ragnarok
Every 1,000 years, the ods in Valhalla decide humanity’s fate. Displeased with human flaws, they opt for extinction, but Valkyrie Brunhilde invokes Ragnarok: 13 one-on-one deathmatches between divine warriors and history’s greatest humans. Seven victories determine survival. Produced by Graphinica and Warner Bros. Japan, Season 1 (12 episodes) premiered on Netflix June 17, 2021. Season 2, co-produced with Yumeta Company, followed in 2023, delivering more intense clashes.
Record of Ragnarök Plot and Important Characters
In a magnificent arena, gods such as Zeus (voiced by Iemasa Kayuki) and Thor clash against beings such as Lü Bu and Adam. Brunhilde (Miyuki Sawashiro) designs strategies, coupling humans with Valkyrie-made weapons. Some of the series’ strongest moments include Buddha’s betrayal to humanity and Shiva’s fiery battles. Rich flashbacks of every character enhance every fighter’s biography, interweaving history, philosophy, and bloody combat, such as Thor’s hammer against Lü Bu’s halberd in Round 1. The series has popular historical legends pitted against the gods to save humankind.
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The Netflix Removal Controversy in India
Hours after its India debut, Record of Ragnarok was pulled from Netflix due to backlash over its depiction of Hindu deity Shiva. A trailer showing Shiva’s battle dance drew ire from U.S.-based Hindu activist Rajan Zed, who called it “trivialising” a revered god. Zed demanded action from Warner Bros. Japan and Netflix, citing past controversies over Hindu portrayals. Netflix defended the content in the beginning, but later decided to remove the series entirely. Indian fans criticised Netflix for this action, while others supported the move.
Record of Ragnarök Reception and Critical Response
Record of Ragnarök has been well-received by manga and anime fans. The manga received praise for its storyline and intense fights. However, its anime is not as popular as its manga due to its underwhelming animation. However, the series still sits with an average IMDb rating of 6.5 and a 6.81 rating on My Anime List.
How to Watch Record of Ragnarök Season 3 in India?
Globally, Seasons 1-2 stream on Netflix (except in restricted regions like India). Season 3, Record of Ragnarok III, directed by Koichi Hatsumi, is set for December 2025, featuring electric battles between historical figures. Indian fans may need to use a VPN to enjoy the series.
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