In recent years, the world of anime has seen an unprecedented surge in popularity, and this trend is no exception in India. At an event in Mumbai on July 20, Rahul Purini, the president of Crunchyroll, made a significant announcement, declaring India as home to the second-largest anime fandom in the world. This revelation came as no surprise to many, as the country has been witnessing a remarkable growth in its anime community.
“India is a special place for Crunchyroll,” said Purini, acknowledging the immense love and passion for anime among Indian viewers. He further predicted that India would drive 60% of the global growth in anime interest in the coming years. Crunchyroll, a prominent anime streaming platform, has been actively expanding its content catalogue to cater to the burgeoning fandom in India. With over 500 titles, 3800 hours of content, and 7500 episodes, Crunchyroll boasts the largest anime catalogue in the country.
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Anime has come a long way in India, evolving from a niche interest to a mainstream phenomenon. In the past, fans faced limited options to access anime content, primarily relying on Netflix for official releases. However, the scenario has drastically changed, with nearly every seasonal show now licensed for the Indian market. Furthermore, television channels have noticed the surging demand for anime, leading to an upswing in the telecast of anime series.
The growth of anime fandom in India can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the increasing availability of anime content through platforms like Crunchyroll has made it easily accessible to a broader audience. Secondly, the rise of social media has played a pivotal role in connecting fans, allowing them to share their love for anime, participate in discussions, and stay updated on the latest releases. Lastly, the expanding affluence of the Indian middle class has facilitated greater disposable income, enabling more people to indulge in their anime passion.
Crunchyroll’s entry into the Indian market in 2022 has been a game-changer. The platform has been proactive in understanding the unique needs of the Indian anime community. To better cater to Indian viewers, Crunchyroll has introduced Hindi dubs and has plans to offer Telugu and Tamil dubs in the future. Additionally, the company has collaborated with popular Indian actors to promote its streaming service in the country.
The success of anime in India can be attributed not only to its captivating storytelling and diverse genres but also to the passion of its dedicated fandom. Indian anime enthusiasts have been vocal in expressing their desire for a convenient and accessible streaming service, and Crunchyroll has answered their call.
Source: IGN India
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