New Delhi: An exhibition at Delhi’s Hauz Khas Village is attempting to connect the Indian youth to contemporary Japanese culture. Manga cafe, presented by the Japanese Foundation, display’s some of the most iconic Japanese comic creations, for the pleasure of avid comic readers. Tucked away behind a big glass door, with just an eye painted on it, 13 BCD is where, young students and adults are making their way to get a taste of what the Art is all about.
For most, Manga was limited to the simple yet entertaining animated movies, like Naruto and Doraemon. But for the curious few, Manga Cafe allows people to plunge into the world of traditional Manga comics.Kunal, a class 12 student from a city college is not only an ardent fan but practices the art himself. ”It’s awesome... not all, but most of them are awesome!” says a laughing Kunal, seated on a bean bag at the Manga cafe, browsing through the comics, along with a couple of his friends.
The exhibition will continue till the 29th of May, but for enthusiasts Manga is available online and one can also visit the Japan Foundation Library, near Delhi’s Moolchand metro station, and browse through their abundant collection for free. According to the director of Art and design, The Japan Foundation Matsuoka, “unfortunately there aren’t any comics available in India... but we’re hoping Japanese or Indian agents will start the business.” If the business expands there’s no stopping the Indian audience from sharing in the Japanese craze, that is Manga!
