HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Nov 24: The inaugural edition of Guwahati Comic Con concluded on Sunday with an energetic display of pop culture, creativity and fandom, drawing more than 15,000 visitors over two days at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex. Presented by Maruti Suzuki Arena and powered by Crunchyroll, the maiden event became a vibrant gathering point for comic readers, illustrators, creators, cosplayers, anime enthusiasts and pop culture fans from across the Northeast.
The second day featured a packed lineup, including a special session marking 45 years of Amar Chitra Katha and discussions on its cultural legacy. It also saw the launch of World of Butterfingers Vol 2 by Khyrunnisa A and Abhijeet Kini, along with the debut of ‘Where We Left Off’, an indie comic addressing climate reality by Nikhil Kamath and Kini. A Wingstar activity by Tinkle added an interactive element for younger participants.
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Legendary Archie Comics creator Bill Golliher hosted an artists’ session, engaging the audience with live sketching and storytelling. A musical tribute to singer Zubeen Garg by Once Fly Rock left attendees emotional, while stand-up comedian Anirban Dasgupta delivered a crowd-pleasing set. Artist EPR Iyer closed the performance lineup with a powerful mix of rap, poetry and social commentary.
The event wrapped up with what organisers described as Guwahati’s biggest cosplay showdown—the Indian Championship of Cosplay 2026: Guwahati Qualifier. Cosplayers showcased detailed portrayals of characters ranging from Red Hood and Deadpool to popular anime icons such as Mao Mao (The Apothecary Diaries), Zenitsu (Demon Slayer) and Amane Misa (Death Note). Characters like Anya (Spy × Family), Aglaea (Honkai: Star Rail) and Capitano (Genshin Impact) also made appearances.
Arshy Deori, cosplaying as Nikke won the qualifier round, taking home a Rs 50,000 prize along with merchandise and a spot in the national championship.
With Guwahati Comic Con closing its debut edition, the excitement now shifts to the Delhi Comic Con scheduled from December 5 to 7.
Comic Con India CEO Shefali Johnson said the overwhelming response from fans made the maiden edition unforgettable, highlighting the warmth and creativity of the Northeast’s pop culture community.
NODWIN Gaming co-founder and MD Akshat Rathee described the event as a long-awaited milestone, calling Guwahati Comic Con the beginning of a sustained commitment to nurture the region’s talent and passion for pop culture.
