Immerse in all things anime at this convention in Mumbai this weekend

Pics courtesy/Wikimedia Commons

We're down with a serious case of anime fever. It must be in the air. Perhaps it is the Anime India convention's second season that is arriving louder and bigger than before, this weekend. "Nearly 150 million viewers watch anime in India every year. I think it deserves some respect and support," says co-founder Mishaal Wanvari. The programming features some standouts among events that you can afford to miss. Here's what you should definitely clear your calendar for.

A cosplayer at the 2025 edition. PICS COURTESY/ANIME INDIA

ON August 28 to 30; 10 am onwards
AT NESCO Exhibition Centre, Goregaon.
LOG ON TO district.in
ENTRY Rs 499 (one-day pass); Rs 1,199 (three-day all access pass)

Talks
Sakamoto stories

Meet Ryoto Hasegawa (below) for a peek into the production of the best-selling manga, Sakamoto Days. Bring all your questions about the chaotic world of Taro Sakamoto, Shin Asakura and
the gang.
ON August 29; 12.15 pm
AT Flagship Stage

A date with Naruto

Naruto Uzumaki's never-say-die attitude seems to have worked for Mumbai fans. Meet Hayato Date (right), the iconic director behind the series for a walk down memory lane, insider stories, and fan interactions.
ON August 28, 1.30 pm; August 30, 1 pm
AT Flagship Stage

Activities
Ready, set, slurp

Trust the Japanese to bring the quirkiest ideas to life. This ‘sneaky ramen eating contest' will challenge foodies to chow down on soupy ramen while the host's eyes are not on them. If you're caught in the act, be prepared for some anime-themed dares.
ON August 28; 2.45 pm
AT Open Stage

Hands on the buzzer

Think you've seen it all? We'd suggest you brush up your anime gyaan before battling it out in this Otaku Quiz. Expect the unexpected; the 2025 edition had contestants guessing characters by their feet!
ON August 28; 11 am
AT Open Stage

What's your story?

Give that ambitious story you've been keeping to yourself a chance. Put pen to paper and learn to write your own Ranobe (Japanese: anime novel) from author Atish Sorokhaibam, whose novel Avalon (left) recently took the Indian anime scene by storm.
ON August 29; 1.30 pm
AT Open Stage

Performances
Suit yourself

The much-awaited cosplay showcase has an inclusive twist this year. The Closet Cosplayers segment invites budget-friendly costumes made using household materials and repurposed props. Think of it as a warm-up before the masters come out guns and swords slinging.
ON August 28, 4.30 pm (amateurs); August 30, 4 pm (grand cosplay)
AT Flagship Stage

J-pop on top

J-pop duo Mofmofmo

Internet sensations and new-age J-pop duo Mofmofmo (Mimi-chan and Toto-chan) are all set to make their Mumbai debut alongside Live Love!-fame Yura Akari. Don't forget to put your dancing shoes on.
ON August 30; 12.30 pm
AT Open Stage

Indian A-idols

Catch musicians from the city take their first step into the world of J-pop. They might not be pitch-perfect, but we'll be there to cheer them on.
ON August 30; 10.45 am
AT Open Stage