First ever Indian comic-book convention in Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 20(ANI): India's first comic book convention has opened in New Delhi, with organisers expecting thousands of fans to prove that the art form is still thriving in the Internet age

The convention aims to bring new talents forward in the comic industry and hopes to attract producers for animation films and television serials based on Indian heroes much like Shaktimaan, Chacha Choudhary and the many more.

Jatin Varma, organiser of the two-day convention, said that the effects of India's recent economic dynamism have spread from big business into the alternative worlds of youth culture and underground art.

"The number of artists working on comic books has grown, new graphic novels are being launched, bookstores are developing dedicated areas to display comics, it's all pretty exciting," he added.

The fair includes over 50 publishers, such as Magna, Marvel, Archie and DC comics, along with the popular Indian brigade of Amar Chitra Katha, Vimanika, Diamond and National Book Trust among others.

Visitors ranging from age group of three to 70 years old were busy asking for their favourite comics and exploring new dimensions of graphic novels put up at the fair.

"We wait long for this to happen in our country and it is the first time so we have to be there to support it.. I am looking at good comics of DCs, Marvel and of course the toys. I have special love for iconic toys like Batman and Superman and for good comics," said Saurabh Sharma, animation student.

"I grew up watching cartoons, reading comics and of course I have got friends here. The organisers invited me (for the contest) and so I said 'yes let's do it'. I thought I could manipulate them and win a trip to Goa," said Danish Anand, comic book lover who came dressed as villain Jaffar from famous Arabian Aladdin comic strip.

Comic lovers have also found an opportunity to meet Anant Pai, creator of Tinkle and Amar Chitra Katha, and Pran, who has created the famous Diamond Comics.

The two-day convention, which opened on February 19, will end today. (ANI)