Pune's Cosplay Community Ignites Ahead of Comic Con India Gurugram 2026

The energy was palpable in Pune this past weekend as the city's vibrant cosplay community gathered for 'Cosplay 101,' a dynamic pre-event workshop serving as the official curtain-raiser for the upcoming Comic Con India Gurugram 2026. Scheduled to take place on March 21–22, 2026, the main convention is already generating buzz, but the atmosphere at the preparatory session was electric. The venue overflowed with enthusiastic young fans, some deeply engaged in hands-on learning, others capturing content for social media, and many lining up for volunteer interviews, all united by a shared passion for bringing fictional worlds to life. This gathering was not just about costumes; it was a celebration of creativity, fandom, and the collaborative spirit that defines the Indian pop culture scene. Leading the charge were three distinguished experts who demystified the art of costume play for aspiring newcomers: Akshay Churi, a two-time winner of the Indian Championship of Cosplay; Sameer Shaikh, a renowned costume and prop artisan; and Navita Misa, a veteran cosplayer with over a decade of experience. The trio emphasized that true cosplay transcends mere visual accuracy, urging participants to embody the very soul and personality of the characters they portray. A standout moment of the session was a live demonstration by Sameer Shaikh, who showcased how to craft an intricate shoulder prop using EVA foam. This practical display highlighted how accessible, budget-friendly materials can be transformed into high-quality, detailed costume pieces, proving that entry into the hobby does not require a fortune, only imagination and skill. Abhishek Panda, Manager of Content, Talent & Community at Comic Con India, explained that the initiative was specifically designed to guide enthusiasts who are eager to start but feel unsure of the first steps. By hosting this workshop a month prior to the main event, the organizers are providing participants with ample time to plan, build, and perfect their outfits before stepping onto the convention floor. Akshay Churi shared his own origin story, recalling how his journey began in 2014 with a simple Iron Man helmet made for personal display, which eventually evolved into full-scale competitive cosplay. He noted the excitement of guiding a new generation of creators through the entire build process, from initial concept to final assembly, making the experience both educational and immensely fun for everyone involved. Navita Misa, who has been a staple in the community since 2014 and frequently portrays anime icons, offered heartfelt advice to the crowd, encouraging them to stop overthinking and simply dive in. She stressed the importance of research and connecting with seasoned cosplayers, highlighting the incredibly supportive nature of the community. As she prepares to debut a new character from her favorite anime series at the upcoming Gurugram event, her enthusiasm is contagious. With insights from experts like Sameer Shaikh, who also reflected on his own beginnings in the craft, the workshop successfully planted seeds of confidence in hundreds of attendees. As the countdown to Comic Con India Gurugram 2026 continues, Pune's fandom is more ready than ever to showcase their incredible creations on the national stage.