The fourth edition of Anime India Mumbai recently attracted nearly 50,000 fans, all dressed as their favorite anime characters. Attendees engaged in costume comparisons, shared recommendations, and connected with fellow enthusiasts. This event showcased a blend of cosplay, gaming, music, and fan art, illustrating the evolution of anime from a niche interest to a significant element of mainstream youth culture.
‘Cosplay lets me step into the world of a character’
“There are more than 100 million anime fans in India. Because it lets me step into the world of a character I love, “I cosplay. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mumbai | Silver Rate in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai | Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Petrol Price in Mumbai | Diesel Price in Mumbai | CNG Price in Mumbai | LPG Price in Mumbai Stay updated with the latest Mumbai news.
For a few hours, you are not just watching the story; you are part of it,” says Rithvik Sharma, who attended the convention dressed as one of their favourite anime characters. After COVID, anime saw a huge spike, and people now want to meet, engage and celebrate that fandom together,” he says, adding that young audiences have played a major role in its growth. For many fans, cosplay is more than dressing up — it is a way to become part of the stories they love. Pratham Jha adds, “Spider-Man is the hero I grew up with. “Anime gives young audiences emotional stories and characters they can connect with deeply. This event is about bringing that community together under one roof. One Piece is what got me into anime, so I really wanted to dress as one of its characters, and Nami was my choice. This is my first time attending an event like this, and I’m so excited to see so many others who love anime like I do– Hrishita Kothari, a cosplayer. Spider-Man is the hero I grew up with. Download the TOI App.
Today, getting to dress like him and meet other fans makes the whole experience even more special. ” ‘Anime gives young audiences emotional stories’ For Anime India co-founder Mishaal Wanvari, the growing response reflects how deeply anime has entered India’s youth culture. Today, getting to dress like him and meet other fans makes the whole experience even more special – Pratham Jha, student.
