This film is dedicated to the late Burny Mattinson, a Disney legend who died on February 27, 2023, having worked at Walt Disney Animation Studios for over 70 years.
Asha's friends are modeled after the Seven Dwarfs from Disney's first animated feature, Blanche-Neige et les Sept Nains (1937). Dahlia is Doc (clever, wears glasses); Gabo is Grumpy (cynical, hot-headed); Hal is Happy (optimistic, always smiling); Simon is Sleepy (drowsy and dull); Safi is Sneezy (large nose, highly allergic); Dario is Dopey (big ears, not that bright) and Bazeema is Bashful (quiet, introverted). Gabo even describes himself as "grumpy" at one point, the king calls Simon "sleepy", and Dario's ears flutter in the same fashion as Dopey's.
Asha's grandfather's dream is to create something inspiring for future generations. After the end credits, we see him "writing" the song 'When You Wish Upon a Star,' the signature tune of Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The bear, John, is a reference to Little John, the bear character from Disney's Robin des Bois (1973).
Asha's grandfather is celebrating his one hundredth birthday, a clear reference to the Walt Disney Studios' centennial, during which this film was released.