The influence of fans in shaping the popularity of pop culture phenomena cannot be underestimated. A prime example is the enduring legacy of the Star Wars franchise, a captivating narrative centered around a complex family that has burgeoned into seven significant films, multiple television series, theme parks, and over fifty video games. Current estimates value the franchise at more than $40 billion, surpassing the combined worth of both Harry Potter and James Bond.
This profound attachment from fans, often referred to as fandom, contributes to a lasting cultural impact. It manifests through various expressions, such as fervent debates about iconic moments or long waits in line for casting opportunities in major productions, like The Force Awakens. Additionally, there is the intricate art of cosplay, a blend of costume and role-play, that has evolved since its origins in Japan during the 1980s, becoming a vital aspect of contemporary pop culture.
Convention scenes, previously focused solely on comic books and related genres, now routinely feature cosplay competitions and showcases. Although comic conventions and cosplay have been popular globally for decades, India’s engagement with this phenomenon has only recently begun to flourish, having gained momentum since around 2010.
Sameer Bundela, at 25 years old, boasts experience in the Indian cosplay community since its inception. He recalls, “Before 2010, there were enthusiasts working on personal projects, but there weren’t formal events where they could exhibit their creations.”
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At the inaugural Comic Con in Delhi, Bundela noted a mere seven to eight cosplayers. However, by the third year, attendance surged to between 150 and 200 participants. “In the last two years, the growth has been remarkable, and the quality of cosplay has seen a significant increase,” he stated. Comic Con India has since expanded its reach, organizing four major events annually across New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, and receiving acknowledgment from the international community, represented at this year’s C2E2 Crown Championships of Cosplay in Chicago.
“Previously, we crafted costumes from scratch, often scavenging for materials from abroad,” Bundela said. “Now, professional prop makers have emerged, focusing on costumes and makeup artistry.”
Two prominent figures in this field are Surya Sreenivasan and Kanishk Mehta, engineers during the week and passionate cosplayers on weekends. Their prowess in prop creation has made them well-known in Mumbai’s cosplay circuit.
Having refined his woodworking skills since childhood by creating military models, Sreenivasan has transitioned to making costume props and learned to work with different materials like foam board. Mehta, as an electrical engineer, excels at integrating lighting effects into costumes, evidenced by his work on the illuminated Lion Heart weapon from Final Fantasy. Their efforts are reflected in the success of competitors at cosplay events, earning them respect and recommendations within the community.
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During the last Mumbai Comic Con, Mehta remarked that many winners showcased props crafted by his team. While they do take commissions primarily when time allows, this exposure helps boost their reputation as the go-to prop makers in Mumbai.
According to recent evaluations, the cosplay industry is valued at approximately $390 million in Japan. In India, while the market is still emerging, specialists are beginning to develop their respective roles. Collaborations among cosplayers are common during convention seasons.
Gauri Karnik, 20, known as Gaurilla in the cosplay scene, is celebrated for her sewing skills and frequently assists fellow cosplayers. After finishing her university exams, she plans to take on several ambitious projects this summer before pursuing postgraduate studies. Meanwhile, 27-year-old Tanya Shringarpure, or Syrinx, is a veterinarian who also supplies wigs for cosplayers, showcasing the close-knit connections within the community.
For newcomers, the extensive Indian Cosplay Community group on Facebook serves as an essential resource. Members, including prominent cosplayers like Bundela, are generally willing to provide support and advice. Additionally, platforms like YouTube have become invaluable, enabling aspiring cosplayers to learn new techniques, share experiences, and present their work to a broader audience.
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Bundela notes that those situated outside major cities face unique challenges in sourcing materials and collaborating with fellow cosplayers, based on his experiences in Bhopal. “Many tutorials suggest finding supplies locally, but that wasn’t an option for me in Bhopal,” he explained.
Another ubiquitous hurdle remains the expense associated with cosplay. Depending on the chosen character, costs can range from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 200,000. Surya highlights the financial barriers that deter involvement in certain projects, often opting to accept commissions rather than undertake them personally.
Costume durability also poses challenges at conventions, as crowds’ enthusiasm can inadvertently lead to damage. Bundela recalls one instance when he cosplayed as Spawn: “By the time I reached the registration desk, half my spikes were missing, the shirt was torn, and my cape was pulled back.”
The consensus among seasoned cosplayers is that newcomers should prioritize enjoyment over the pressure to impress. “Focus on creating something that you genuinely enjoy making and cosplaying,” Bundela advised.
While initial reactions from the public involved curiosity and confusion—one instance involved a stranger asking Shringarpure if she attended work in costume—attitudes have shifted dramatically. Greater awareness of geek culture has propelled it into mainstream acceptance, significantly influencing the film industry’s success, even in India. This trend is likely to continue, especially considering the extensive release schedules announced by major studios such as Marvel and Lucasfilm, alongside a robust lineup of DC Comics films by Warner Bros. It is evident that the power of fandom will play a crucial role in determining which properties will thrive in the coming decade.
