Comic Con India returns to Hyderabad after three years, promising a unique pop culture experience

With a thoughtfully curated lineup, this edition of the Comic Con pop culture festival is set to become the largest in Hyderabad.

ByRoshne Balasubramanian

Published Jan 27, 2024 | 8:00 AMUpdatedJan 27, 2024 | 8:00 AM

Hyderabad Comic Con 2024 is scheduled to take place on 27 and 28 January at HITEX Exhibition Centre from 11 am to 8 pm. (Supplied)

This weekend, Hyderabad is set to host an eagerly anticipated event for comic enthusiasts, gamers, cosplayers, and those seeking unique experiences. After a three-year hiatus, Comic Con, one of the country’s prominent pop culture festivals, will take place in the city on the 27 and 28 of January at HITEX Exhibition Centre, offering an exciting conclusion to the first month of the new year.

The return of Comic Con to Hyderabad after a three-year break holds significant meaning for Comic Con India. Jatin Varma, the founder of Comic Con India, shares, “It’s a momentous occasion for us; this marks our first show in the city post the pandemic. We’ve eagerly awaited this weekend for a long time, and I am excited to bring back the Comic-Con experience to Hyderabad.”

Also Read: Bengaluru Comic Con 2023

An arena for new experiences

Maruti Suzuki Arena, backed by Crunchyroll, will play host to the event, where every attendee will be treated to an exclusive copy of Marvel’s Infinity Gauntlet No.1 comic book, a Limited Edition DC Comics Batman Poster, and a commemorative Comic Con India Bag.

The event will showcase a diverse array of publishing houses and Indian artists such as Indusverse, Yali Dreams Creations, Sufi Comics, Sanjay Gupta’s Raj Comics, Lilorosh, Garbage Bin, Corporate Comics, Bullseye Press, and others. Additionally, international artists Rico Renzi and Danesh Mohiuddin will be part of the festivities, ensuring a varied experience for attendees. 

Maruti Suzuki Arena, backed by Crunchyroll, will play host to the event. (Supplied)

Maruti Suzuki Arena, backed by Crunchyroll, will play host to the event. (Supplied)

The 40,000 sq ft gaming arena, known as The Arena, will be a highlight of the event, featuring daily tournaments, Esports, popular streamers, and immersive gaming experiences, providing attendees with a plethora of options.

While many stalls are popular flagship attractions at Comic Con India, some are unique to Hyderabad. “The Madame Web Experience by Sony Pictures India. The gaming arena will showcase exclusive experiences by AMD, Alienware, and more. Numerous live performances and sessions on the main stage will be exclusive to Hyderabad,” Varma highlights.

Binge-O-clock duo Rohan Joshi and Sahil Shah. (Supplied)

Binge-O-clock duo Rohan Joshi and Sahil Shah. (Supplied)

The mainstage will feature a special stand-up performance by Aakash Gupta, followed by the popular Binge-O-clock duo Rohan Joshi and Sahil Shah. The line-up also includes performances by MC Altaf, Proximity Crew, Geek Fruit, Hip Hop artist – Panther, and many more.

Also Read: Comics, superheroes, and laughter at Bengaluru Comic Con 2023

Flavours of Hyderabad

In a time of heightened interest in pop culture, Hyderabad stands out with its distinct preferences, it seems. 

“Even though fans across India share similar interests and likes, each city has its own flavour. Fans in Hyderabad particularly love their anime and manga; the interest in Japanese content has long been one of the biggest draws in the city,” notes Varma.

Fans in Hyderabad particularly love their anime and manga. (Supplied) Comic Con

Fans in Hyderabad particularly love their anime and manga. (Supplied)

When asked about expectations for this edition of Comic Con in Hyderabad, Varma expresses enthusiasm. “This will be our biggest show in the city yet; we expect a great response from the fans, and with this being the first show post the pandemic, we anticipate it to be even bigger,” he says.

Following successful editions in Bengaluru, New Delhi, and now Hyderabad, Comic Con India is gearing up for its debut in Chennai in February. 

“It will be Chennai’s first-ever Comic Con. We are bringing the entire Comic Con experience to the city, featuring the best of comics, cosplay, merch, TV, movies, and gaming. Fans in the city are in for a treat!” Varma adds.

Hyderabad Comic Con 2024 is scheduled to take place on 27 and 28 January at HITEX Exhibition Centre from 11 am to 8 pm. Passes are available on www.comiccon.in. Price: ₹899 onwards. Website: www.comicconindia.com.

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