Comic Con India 2025 returns to Hyderabad from October 31
HYDERABAD: Hyderabad will once again host India’s biggest celebration of pop culture as Comic Con India 2025–26 returns to the Hitex Exhibition Centre from October 31 to November 2.
The festival will bring together leading cosplayers, gaming celebrities, anime creators and film personalities. Organisers described it as the largest youth lifestyle event in the country, combining comics, gaming, cosplay, anime, films, television and merchandise on a single platform.
Comic Con India CEO Shefali Johnson said Hyderabad’s “energy, creativity and interest in global culture” made it the ideal venue to kick off the new season. “The city has evolved beyond its tech identity into a cultural and creative hub,” she added.
‘Best weekend of the year’ planned
The three-day festival will feature international guests, celebrity Q&A sessions, live music, stand-up comedy, anime showcases, e-sports arenas, exclusive merchandise launches, and meet-and-greet events with content creators. Organisers said the goal is to create the “best weekend of the year” for fans.
Last year, over 40,000 people attended the Hyderabad edition, and organisers expect an even higher turnout this season. Tickets for Comic Con India 2025–26 are available on the Dristikt app, the festival’s official ticketing partner.
Cosplay spotlight
Cosplay has become a major art form, with fans transforming into their favourite superheroes, villains and anime characters. Hyderabad’s cosplay community has gained prominence in recent years, reflecting rising creativity, confidence and fashion awareness among youth.
As part of the festival’s run-up, Comic Con India hosted a cosplay workshop at Aromale Café, a creative community hub in the city. More than 150 participants from across the country attended, learning costume design, prop creation, foam cutting and pattern making.
Two-time Indian Championship of Cosplay (ICC) winner Akshay Churi led the session, sharing tips on costume detailing and presentation. The workshop also included modules on VFX makeup, wig styling and safe contact lens use.
‘Start with your favourite character’
Rahul Reddy, head of Hyderabad Anime and Cosplay Club, encouraged beginners to start with a character they love. “You don’t need to know everything before you begin. Passion for a character is enough to inspire you,” he said.
Shukran Khan, the ICC 2024–25 Hyderabad qualifier, showcased an impressive World of Warcraft armour costume of Anduin Wrynn, drawing praise from fellow participants. “It wasn’t just a class—it was a fun, hands-on experience,” he said, describing how participants learned to cut foam patterns and glue pieces themselves.
Organisers said the workshop boosted confidence among first-time cosplayers and reinforced Hyderabad’s growing reputation as a creative capital.
