Indian Comicverse: A Nostalgic Revival at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025

The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025, hosted at the grand Bharat Mandapam from February 1 to February 9, was a spectacular celebration of literature, art, and storytelling. This year, the event took on a special aura as the Indian comic book industry made a resounding comeback, rekindling the magic of illustrated storytelling. The fair was an electrifying blend of nostalgia and innovation, as both legendary pioneers and fresh new creators showcased their work, proving that Indian comics are entering a new golden age.

The Return of Indian Comics: A Journey Through Time

For many, names like Suppandi, Nagraj, Bankelal, Cheeku-Meeku, and Amar Chitra Katha’s legendary epics evoke a wave of childhood nostalgia. These comics, once household favorites through the ’80s and ’90s, experienced a sharp decline with the rise of video games, internet culture, and smartphones.

“The first decline happened in the ’90s with the arrival of VCRs and cassette tapes, which offered an alternative to comics and pulp fiction novels. The second major decline came after 2010, when smartphones took over, making digital content easily accessible and changing reading habits entirely,” explained an industry expert at the event. However, the industry has been making a powerful resurgence, thanks to new-age Indian graphic novelists and initiatives like the Comics Creator Championship, Comic Con, and WAVES.

The global comic book industry, valued at $14.69 billion in 2021, is projected to reach $21.37 billion by 2029, and India is riding this wave of growth with renewed enthusiasm. At this year’s fair, the stalls featuring illustrated editions of the Hanuman Chalisa, Mahabharata retellings, and stories of Indian war heroes drew massive crowds. Publishers like Amar Chitra Katha, Raj Comics, and Campfire Graphic Novels made a huge impact with their stunning visuals and gripping storytelling.

The Icons of Indian Comics at NDWBF 2025:

Amar Chitra Katha: A Timeless Treasure

The Amar Chitra Katha stall was a hotspot at the fair, with its collection of religious epics, historical legends, and bestsellers like Tinkle and Suppandi. The brand has expanded into new territories, even covering contemporary stories like Mann Ki Baat—a 14-volume series available in 12 languages, created in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture. This fusion of old and new has made Amar Chitra Katha a key player in keeping traditional stories alive for newer generations.

Raj Comics: The Evolution of Indian Superheroes

Founded in 1986, Raj Comics has been a staple in Indian pop culture with its iconic superheroes like Nagraj, Dhruva, and Doga. Over the years, Raj Comics has consistently evolved with technology, from digital coloring in the 2000s to the growing popularity of international comics in the 2010s. “Indian comics today can compete with Marvel when it comes to illustrations,” said a Raj Comics representative. As they transition into film adaptations, these Indian superheroes are set to reach an even larger audience.

Cinemics: A Genre for Every Reader

Cinemics has made a name for itself by publishing a diverse range of comics, spanning horror, comedy, kids’ stories, suspense thrillers, murder mysteries, and even time-travel adventures. Most notably, they have brought Chandrakanta to life in a graphic format for the first time, bridging classic literature with modern storytelling.

Ektara: A Tribute to India’s Traditional Art

Ektara’s approach to publishing is deeply rooted in India’s artistic heritage. Their beautifully illustrated comics and graphic novels celebrate the country’s traditional art forms. “We don’t aim to teach a language or push an agenda—we simply want people to appreciate history and literature through exquisite art and storytelling,” said an Ektara representative.

Biplob World: Comics with a Cause

Biplob World stood out as an eco-conscious publisher, dedicated to creating engaging stories that educate children about the environment. “There’s a Biplob within each of us. The solutions to our problems don’t come from an external superhero; they lie within us,” explained co-founder Abhishek. Their comics inspire young readers to care for nature through interactive storytelling.

Ashwatha Tree: Cultivating Pride in Indian Heritage

Ashwatha Tree’s mission is to instill a sense of pride in Indian traditions and culture among children. Their books cover Indian festivals, folklore, and historical narratives, ensuring that these cultural treasures are not lost with time. “If we introduce children to these stories at a young age, they will carry these values forward,” said the founder.

Campfire: A Global Force in Graphic Storytelling

Campfire Graphic Novels has redefined illustrated literature by creating high-quality graphic novels on history, mythology, and biographies. From Indian epics like Draupadi and Karna to global figures like Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, their well-researched and authentic art has gained worldwide recognition. “Our books are available in over 40 international languages, from Spanish to Arabic,” shared a Campfire spokesperson.

AAN Publications: Honoring India’s Real Heroes

AAN Publications is dedicated to telling the stories of India’s real-life heroes—soldiers, warriors, and unsung defenders of the nation. “We bring forward the stories of those who have sacrificed for the country but remain unknown to most Indians,” said a passionate representative. Their publications emphasize patriotism, making them a standout presence at the fair.

A New Era for Indian Comics

The 2025 New Delhi World Book Fair proved that Indian comics are back with a vengeance. The fusion of nostalgia with cutting-edge storytelling and breathtaking artwork is breathing new life into the industry. From mythology and history to superheroes and social themes, Indian comics are more diverse and engaging than ever before.

This event was a testament to how illustrated storytelling is evolving, captivating audiences old and new. As publishers continue to innovate and adapt, the Indian comic book industry is set to soar, carving out its place on the global stage.

Did you attend NDWBF 2025? What’s your favorite Indian comic? Let us know in the comments and stay tuned for more exciting updates from INSIGHT!

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