KOCHI COMIC CON, presented by Maruti Suzuki Arena and powered by Crunchyroll, concluded its inaugural edition at AICC Angamaly, Ernakulam, attracting a footfall of more than 20,000 visitors across two days. The debut reflected Kerala’s strong reading culture, expanding anime communities and a growing appetite for contemporary fandom experiences.
For years, fans from the state had travelled to attend Comic Con events in other cities. This time, the celebration arrived on home turf. Families, students, creators and established fandom groups filled the venue, moving between artist alleys, panel discussions, gaming arenas and live stage performances, according to the organisers.
A standout moment was the presence of internationally renowned comic book creator Dan Parent, whose sessions drew packed audiences. Discussions around storytelling, character development and global comic traditions resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom grew up reading Malayalam comics and now actively engage with international pop culture.
The creators’ corner was among the busiest zones on the show floor. Amar Chitra Katha, Balarama Comics and Alpha Book Publishers were among the prominent exhibitors connecting with readers, while independent creators such as Abhijeet Kini engaged directly with fans through signings and interactive discussions.
Cosplay emerged as a defining feature of the Kochi edition. Participants portrayed a wide array of characters, from global favourites such as Denji from Chainsaw Man, Luffy from One Piece, Tanjiro from Demon Slayer, and Marvel’s Dr. Strange and Moon Knight, to regional icons including Mayavi, Luttappi and Minnal Murali. The Kochi Qualifier of the Indian Championship of Cosplay concluded on Sunday, with Indrakshi Haldar claiming the title for her portrayal of Neverend, True Destiny King from Duel Masters, and winning a Rs 50,000 cash prize.
The NODWIN Gaming Arena recorded steady footfall across both days, offering live gameplay, competitive challenges and interactive showcases such as VR experiences themed around Chandrayaan and Beat Saber, a racing simulator corner by Logitech, and a Just Dance booth. Experience zones by Maruti Suzuki Arena and Crunchyroll remained active throughout the weekend, while the Suzume Door installation at the Crunchyroll booth drew particular interest. Crunchyroll Power Pass holders also received exclusive merchandise.
On the entertainment front, MHR & JOKER delivered one of the most energetic musical performances of the event, while Sreenath Bhasi & Crew received a strong local response. Comedy acts by Gautham Govindan, Nirmal Pillai, Pilot Gomma and Rohan Joshi played to packed audiences, with Geek Fruit and Purple Line adding their distinct pop-culture flair to the line-up.
Comic Con India CEO Shefali Johnson said, “Kerala has always had a strong artistic culture. You see it in Kathakali and Theyyam, in Koodiyattam performances, and in the mural traditions across the state. There is attention to detail and pride in presentation that runs deep here. That was visible at Kochi Comic Con as well. Cosplayers approached their craft seriously, audiences engaged thoughtfully during panels, and the overall warmth in our very first year made this debut incredibly special for us.’”
NODWIN Gaming co-founder and MD Akshat Rathee said, “People in Kerala really show up for what they believe in. You see it during Thrissur Pooram, you see it in theatres on a first day first show, and you see it in the pride around local stories and characters. That same energy carried into Kochi Comic Con. In our very first year here, the response was strong and wholehearted. Fans cheered for local favourites MHR and Joker, Sreenath Bhasi, stayed through sessions, and explored every zone with real enthusiasm. It gives us a lot of confidence about building this platform in Kochi year after year.”
