4 days ago
India’s Anime Boom Draws Oppo, Toyota Into Fandom Economy
More than 100 million people in India enjoy anime, which is Japanese animated storytelling.
Many fans now spend money on shows, games, books, clothes, food and events.
At Anime India 2026 in Mumbai, people dressed as their favorite characters and played games.
A maid café let visitors experience a Japanese-inspired form of entertainment.
Companies such as Oppo and Toyota came to the event to meet these passionate fans.
Oppo showed smartphones, while Toyota displayed a vehicle and created anime-themed experiences.
Fans connect with stories about courage, friendship, family and never giving up.
This is turning anime fandom into a growing business opportunity in India.
India’s anime audience now exceeds 100 million, creating spending opportunities across streaming, gaming, food, fashion and merchandise.
Anime India 2026 in Mumbai featured cosplay, manga, gaming stations, Japanese food and an immersive maid café.
Oppo showcased smartphones and Toyota displayed its Urban Cruiser Hyryder to connect with anime-loving young consumers.
Toyota said anime-inspired displays and interactive experiences could help it engage Gen Z audiences.
Organizers and industry representatives said themes such as resilience, family, friendship and ambition help Japanese stories resonate with Indian fans.
- Who
- Indian anime fans, Anime India organizers, Oppo, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Anime Times Company representatives.
- What
- Anime India 2026 showcased India’s expanding anime fandom and attracted mainstream brands seeking to reach young consumers.
- Where
- NESCO in Mumbai, India.
- When
- The article was published on August 29, 2026; the event is identified as Anime India 2026.
- Why
- Brands are responding to an audience of more than 100 million anime fans and their growing spending on entertainment, products and experiences.
Key facts
- Estimated audience
- More than 100 million anime viewers and fans in India.
- Event
- Anime India 2026.
- Location
- NESCO, Mumbai.
- Brand participants
- Oppo and Toyota Kirloskar Motor.
- Toyota display
- The Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
- Fan experience
- A Japanese-style maid café featuring Indian performers dressed as maids.
- Spending areas
- Streaming, cinema, manga, licensed merchandise, gaming, Japanese food and conventions.
Quotes
An Anime India official
Representative of the Anime India organisers
“We really want to blend Japanese culture with Indian culture here.”
thehindubusinessline.com
“I don’t want to give up. I want to achieve my success.”
thehindubusinessline.com
Sabari Manohar
Executive Vice-President for Sales-Service-Used Car Business at Toyota Kirloskar Motor
“Anime India offers a unique platform to connect with a highly passionate community that strongly identifies with creativity, self-expression and contemporary pop culture.”
thehindubusinessline.com
Sources
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