Definition
Devashard is a Hong‑Kong‑originated manhua (Chinese comic) series first published in 2008 by Fluid Comics (also known as Fluid Friction Comics). The series is a fantasy narrative inspired by the Indian epic Mahābhārata and centers on the mythic figure Karna.
Overview
The project was announced as a 25‑volume series, with each volume comprising approximately 52 pages. The inaugural volume, DevaShard: At First Light, was released in June 2008 and marked Fluid Comics’ first publication. The storyline follows Karna—a radiant son deprived of his birthright—within the fictional world of Bhumi, depicting his struggles against darkness, magical beasts, deities, and demons. The series has been issued on a quarterly schedule and is intended for an ongoing readership.
Etymology / Origin
The title “Devashard” appears to combine the Sanskrit word deva (“god” or “divine”) with the English word “shard” (a fragment or piece). This construction reflects the series’ thematic focus on divine heritage and fragmented destiny. No official source confirms this derivation, so the interpretation remains plausible but not definitively documented.
Characteristics
- Genre and Themes: Fantasy, mythological retelling, heroic epic. Incorporates elements of Indian mythology, particularly the Mahābhārata, while presenting an original graphic narrative.
- Format: Each graphic book is 52 pages long; the series was planned for 25 books. Publication was slated on a quarterly basis.
- Creative Team:
- Writer: Zen
- Penciller: Keith Burns
- Inker: Ken Cheung
- Letterer: Keith Burns
- Colorist: Johnny Tam
- Publisher: Fluid Comics (Fluid Friction Comics), a Hong‑Kong‑based publisher known for producing manhua and graphic novels.
- Collected Editions: The first volume was released in paperback with ISBN 988‑17‑2451‑1.
- Adaptations: In 2009 the series was optioned by Vanquish Motion Pictures. A film adaptation was reportedly released in the United States in late 2012, followed by releases in the United Kingdom, India, and China in early 2013.
Related Topics
- Manhua – Chinese-language comics, of which Devashard is an example.
- Mahābhārata – The ancient Indian epic that serves as the narrative inspiration.
- Karna – Central mythological figure whose life story is reinterpreted in the series.
- Fluid Friction Comics – The publishing house behind Devashard and other graphic‑novel projects.
- Indian Mythology in Popular Media – A broader category encompassing works that adapt Indian epics for contemporary audiences.
Note: The information presented is derived from publicly available sources, including the Wikipedia entry for “Devashard” and related publisher announcements. No speculative claims have been included.