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I’m in an animated frame of mind!
Delhi is fast becoming a hub of quirky cultural activities. The Comic Con held at the NSIC Grounds in Okhla, is a haven for geeks of all manner. Now in its eighth year, this relatively small fest has grown by leaps and bounds.
Comic Con originally began in San Diego in 1970, and grew from simply being a convention where comic book lovers gathered, to a multi-genre entertainment meet-up. Many countries have embraced this concept since then. In India, Comic Con is organized in collaboration with Reed Exhibitions, and takes place in 5 cities- Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Pune.
People dressed as their favourite characters
The Delhi version will take place this weekend and I have a double motive to attend. Having grown up on a steady stream of Archie comics, and a plethora of superhero movies; I’d call myself a partial geek. I also want to visit and support my friends Zafar Khurshid, Anant Sagar, Akshay Dhar and Aniruddho Chakraborty, the proprietors of indie comic brand- ICBM Comics.
Zafar and Akshay own award-winning brand Meta Desi Comics and Anant writes and does art work for them. Aniruddho runs his own brand, Chariot Comics. Meta Desi Comics are known for their titles ‘Holy Hell’ and ‘Super Soldier Squad’; while Chariot Comics are famous for their ‘Vrica’ and ‘Damned’ titles. They have now come together to sell comics under the banner of ICBM Comics.
With the Meta Desi Comics boys. From L-R: Akshay, Anant and Zafar
Avoid the crowds by visiting on a Friday evening; so you can take advantage of the easy parking, quick entry and hassle-free experience. I booked tickets on their website, but they have also partnered with insider.com to book tickets online. A ton of Comic Con merchandise is included in the ticket price. The weekend is expected to draw a large crowd, so be prepared if you plan to visit on Saturday or Sunday.
As always, there will be a few people dressed as their favourite characters, as well as many comic book quizzes and giveaways sponsored by big stalls. If one were so inclined, one could most certainly walk away with a lot of interesting merchandise for free!
L: First edition of Archie Comics in Delhi; R: A treat for Star Wars fans
There is a stage for performances and a large food court. Many interesting special sessions are lined up over three days. The food court has a mix of cuisines and there is plenty of seating on offer.
Dreamcatchers for sale!
The arena is usually dominated with bookstores and merchandise sellers! I only wish the convention could focus more on its original métier- comics.
Overall, it’s always a well-organized event with plenty for everyone; whether true lovers of pop culture or just people looking for something fun to do on the weekend.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Days and Timings: 7, 8, 9 December 2018, Friday Saturday, Sunday
11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Venue: NSIC Exhibition Grounds, Okhla
Ticket price: Single- Day passes: INR 499
Super FAN VIP Pass for all 3 days: INR 1299
Event rating: 4/5
I really enjoyed Comic Con held in Mumbai 2 years back. It’s even better when you have a bunch of friends with you.
Wow this looks like great fun to be here and enjoy …never attended such event …
Wow this looks like great fun to be here and enjoy …never attended such event …hope next time I get chance to attend such event
The best way to live your dream. Live in an alternate universe.The energy and youthfulness too the environment to a whole new level
i hope this will come in kolkata too.. Very nice..
Oh wow, I’m simply loving the vibes of this festival. People dressed up as their favour characters shows amazing enthusiasm one has. Since it is on the coming weekend, I’ll try to attend this event.
Wow.. the pictures looks fabulous. Seems you had a great time. Loved reading the entire festival vibes. Thanks for sharing
I never attended any comic con event, love to attend one. It seem so much fun. Meet your favourite character or dress like one of them
Having loved comics and comics characters as a child, the Comic Con quite appeals to me. The Delhi Comic-con seems to be a roaring affair. Archie in Delhi seems to have riveted my attention, especially.
I have never attended such event. It looks fun and interesting. I would love to attend comic con someday.
This is awesome looks like a great event to attend and have some fun time with your friends and family
Wow, the event looks really funful and awesome to me. I have never attained such events.. Wish to to attain once for sure.
I attended the one year before last. It was a lot of fun! I’m sure this year will be equally entertaining. Do share the highlights of this year’s Comic Con!