Jatan Verma, the founder of Comic-Con India, said the country is experiencing a significant surge in anime and manga popularity.

This growth reflects a broader cultural shift in Indian entertainment consumption, where Japanese media is increasingly competing with Western franchises for the attention of younger audiences.

Verma discussed the evolution of the fandom during the NDTV Indo-Japan Strategic Dialogue. He said the medium's popularity grew particularly after the pandemic, as more viewers discovered the art form through digital platforms. The rise of these interests has fueled the expansion of organized fan events across the subcontinent.

Comic-Con India launched in 2011 [1]. Since its inception, the convention has grown into a multi-city operation that now functions in 14 Indian cities [1]. This expansion allows the organization to reach a diverse demographic of fans in different urban centers.

According to Verma, the scale of the fandom is evident in the attendance numbers. More than 350,000 people have visited Comic-Con India events [1]. The founder said his own long-standing passion for the medium drove the creation of the event, aiming to provide a space for enthusiasts to gather.

While the convention began as a broader celebration of comic books and pop culture, the specific influence of Japanese manga and anime has become a primary driver of growth. The event serves as a hub for cosplay, and community building, bridging the gap between international creators and Indian consumers.

“Comic-Con India now operates in 14 cities”

The rapid expansion of Comic-Con India and the rising consumption of anime indicate a maturing market for Japanese intellectual property in South Asia. As digital streaming makes manga and anime more accessible, the demand for physical community spaces and licensed merchandise is likely to grow, potentially leading to more direct investments from Japanese studios into the Indian market.