In a major initiative to boost anime and manga culture in India, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, in collaboration with the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), has officially introduced the WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!). The contest, part of the “Create in India Challenge,” aims to support local creators and tap into the growing interest in Japanese manga and anime within India.
Unveiling of the Create in India Challenge
On August 22, 2024, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & Information Technology, launched the Create in India Challenge—Season One in New Delhi. This challenge, preceding the WAVES summit, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Design in India, Design for the World,” as outlined during the 78th Independence Day address.
What is WAM!?
WAM! provides Indian creators with a unique platform to produce localized versions of popular Japanese art styles, catering to both national and global audiences. Offering marketing support and opportunities for international recognition, this contest is designed to foster creative expression in the fields of manga and anime.
Categories of Participation
WAM! features three key categories for participants:
- Manga (Japanese-style comics) – Individual participation for students and professionals
- Webtoon (Vertical comics for digital platforms) – Individual participation for students and professionals
- Anime (Japanese-style animation) – Team participation (up to four members) for students and professionals
Participants are provided with a script and must create:
- Manga (Students/Professionals): 2 pages with at least 4 panels, in ink and color (physical/digital)
- Webtoon (Students/Professionals): 7–10 panels with ink and color
- Anime (Students/Professionals): 10–15 seconds of animation based on the provided script
Competition Structure and Schedule
The competition is divided into two levels: state-level contests held across eleven cities, followed by a national finale. Participants can compete individually or in teams, with separate categories for students and professionals. Each state-level event features a full-day schedule, starting with registration at 9:00 a.m. and concluding with an expo, job fair, cosplay competitions, and musical performances by 8:00 p.m.
Key Dates and Locations for WAM!
- Bangalore: October 27, 2024
- Chennai: November 10, 2024
- Kohima: November 22, 2024
- Kolkata: November 24, 2024
- Bhubaneswar: November 26, 2024
- Varanasi: November 28, 2024
- Delhi: November 30, 2024
- Mumbai: December 15, 2024
- Ahmedabad: December 17, 2024
- Nagpur: December 19, 2024
- Hyderabad: December 21, 2024
WAM! Finale and International Recognition
The grand finale will be held at the WAVES summit from February 5 to 9, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. Winners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to international events like Anime Japan, sponsored by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Growing Potential of Anime, Manga, and Webtoons in India
Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, spoke about the contest’s potential to showcase Indian talent globally. “With its rich storytelling and creative artistry, WAM! can elevate Indian creators on the world stage, while also fulfilling the rising demand for these art forms in India,” he stated. He also emphasized the role of healthy competition in encouraging innovation among students and professionals.
Fostering Local Talent
Ankur Bhasin, Secretary of the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), hailed the contest as a significant milestone in bringing anime and manga culture to the forefront in India. “By providing a platform for creators to showcase their talent globally, WAM! is not only encouraging creativity but also aligning with the ‘Create in India’ vision, fostering a vibrant media ecosystem in the country,” Bhasin remarked.
Registrations are open on the WAM! website, and participation is free for all categories.
ith inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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