New Delhi, Nov. 7 -- India's win at the 2025 World Cosplay Summit in August for Best Armor was a highlight for a subculture that has been on the rise in the country for a few years now. What was once considered a niche hobby (even by India's conservative standards) has become a powerful and popular form of expression and identity, while also opening new avenues for artists to showcase their talent. With pan-India events like Comic Con India and the India Gaming Show supporting them and giving cosplay a stage, this subculture is well and truly ready for its turn in the limelight.

In most cases, cosplay starts out as a simple hobby and a form of expression. After all, what better way to showcase your love for an anime, comic, or game chara...