The Maruti Suzuki Arena Bengaluru Comic Con, powered by Crunchyroll, unfolded as an extraordinary celebration of pop culture from January 18th to 19th, 2025, at the KTPO Trade Center in Whitefield.
This 12th edition of Bengaluru Comic Con reaffirmed its position as the ultimate destination for fans of comics, anime, manga, gaming, and superheroes in India. With over 50,000 attendees and more than 5,000 cosplayers showcasing their craft, the event was a living testament to the passionate fandom community that defines Bengaluru.
Comic Con India, under the aegis of NODWIN Gaming, began the new year with an electric two-day festival filled with unforgettable experiences. From the vibrant cosplay displays to immersive activities and live performances, attendees were treated to an exhilarating weekend that captured the essence of global pop culture. The cosplay scene was a highlight, featuring characters from anime hits like One Piece, Naruto, Chainsaw Man, and Demon Slayer, alongside iconic superhero characters like Deadpool, Batman, Spider-Man, and Indian favorites such as Ranga and Chacha Chaudhary. These vibrant cosplays enchanted visitors, adding to the event's dynamic energy.
The live performances were a significant draw, with an impressive roster of comedians, musicians, and creators lighting up the stage. Stand-up comedy icons such as Rahul Subramanian, Azeem Banatwalla, Rohan Joshi, and Pilot Gomma had the audience in splits with their witty takes on pop culture and the world of fandom. The comedic trio of The Internet Said So—Varun Thakur, Kautuk Srivastav, and Aadar Malik—also captivated audiences with their hilarious insights. M.A.D.’s Art Guy Rob inspired fans to embrace their artistic side in interactive sessions, while the Geek Fruit Band entertained with their lively, fandom-themed performances that resonated deeply with the crowd.
The event elevated the convention experience with unique interactive zones created by sponsors and partners like Maruti Suzuki Arena, Yamaha, Crunchyroll, OnePlus, and Warner Brothers. These zones offered VR setups, engaging gaming contests, and exclusive experiences such as the Superman & Minecraft Movie display. The focus on immersive engagement created a truly unique atmosphere that went beyond the traditional conventions, allowing visitors to step into the worlds of their favorite fandoms.
Adding an international flair to the festival, celebrated American comic book creators Ron Marz and Jamal Igle interacted with fans through panels and meet-and-greets. Their presence provided invaluable insights into the world of comic creation, offering inspiration to aspiring artists and fans alike. Alongside them, Indian creators from leading comic book studios such as Indusverse, Graphicurry, Sufi Comics, Bakarmax, and Holy Cow Entertainment contributed to the vibrant atmosphere of creativity and collaboration.
Speaking about the success of the event, Jatin Varma, Founder of Comic Con India, expressed his excitement: “Bengaluru Comic Con 2025 has set a high benchmark for us, showcasing the incredible energy and creativity of the city's fandom. Bengaluru has always been at the forefront of India’s pop culture movement, and this edition is a testament to the city’s love for comics and anime. We’re thrilled by the response and look forward to bringing even bigger experiences to fans across India.”
Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, also shared his thoughts on the event: “This edition of Bengaluru Comic Con perfectly captured the city’s spirit—a seamless blend of technology, creativity, and fandom. From the awe-inspiring Superman Zone to the immersive Chandrayaan VR experience, the event reflected Bengaluru’s essence as a global hub for innovation and fandom.”
The Arena, a sprawling 40,000 sq. ft. gaming zone, became the epicenter of action for gaming enthusiasts. Featuring daily tournaments, appearances from top streamers, and exclusive gaming experiences, the Arena provided non-stop thrills for all. Fans also had opportunities to participate in various engaging activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every attendee.
As the 12th edition of Bengaluru Comic Con concluded, fans are already looking forward to upcoming events in the Comic Con India calendar, with the next stop in Chennai on February 8th and 9th, 2025.
