Tetsuro Araki, the acclaimed Japanese director behind Attack on Titan and Death Note, will be visiting India for the first time this August as the headline guest at Anime India 2025 — the country’s first full-scale anime convention. The event is set to take place from August 22 to 24 at Mumbai’s Nesco Bombay Exhibition Centre.

Organised as a landmark event for India’s growing anime community, Anime India aims to bring Japanese pop culture closer to its estimated 100 million Indian fans. Araki will participate in exclusive panels and a Q&A session, offering insights into his creative process and the making of two of the most influential anime titles of the last two decades.

Anime India will also host a range of events including a cosplay competition, anime quizzes, fan panels, a film festival, and an anime concert. Anisong DJ Touko Nakamura and Japanese voice actor Tsunko are among the international guests confirmed for performances and meet-and-greet sessions.

Also attending is Hideo Katsumata, president of Avex Pictures — known for Black Clover and Look Back — and Susume Fukunaga of The Pokémon Company, who will speak at the concurrent Animation & More Summit.

“This is a dream come true for countless fans who have been inspired by Araki’s work,” said Anime India organiser Neha Mehta.

Director Mishaal Wanvari added, “We’re excited to finally bring a dedicated anime convention to India.”

Additional highlights include: A merchandise zone featuring licensed products from Demon Slayer, Spy x Family, Naruto, and more; original work by over 24 creators; Maid Café experience, a first for Indian anime conventions; and an anime film festival with exclusive screenings and behind-the-scenes content.

Tickets are available via Zomato’s District platform, starting at ₹199.