In India, animated content is often categorized as children’s entertainment, leading to the infantilization of older teen and grown-up anime fans.
This study explores the sociocultural experiences of Indian anime fans through a critical analysis of their responses on Quora, an online Q&A platform.
Using Fairclough’s three-dimensional model of Critical Discourse Analysis, the research uncovers the marginalization, discrimination, and stereotyping faced by these fans, particularly women, in a society that views anime through a racially biased and conservative lens.
Anime in India: A Brief History
Anime first entered India in the early 1990s with shows like The Jungle Book, which, despite being Japanese, was Hindi-dubbed and adapted to feel familiar to Indian audiences. In the 2000s, series like Doraemon, Shinchan, and Ninja Hattori gained popularity but were relegated to children’s TV categories.
The launch of Animax in 2004 marked a significant moment, as it was the first channel dedicated to Japanese anime. However, due to low viewership and lack of advertisers, Animax ceased broadcasting in 2017, leaving Indian anime fans without a dedicated platform.
Research Findings
The study analyzed 205 Quora responses to questions like “What is it like being an anime fan in India?” and “Why do most people in India think anime is for kids?” Key findings include:
1. Infantilization: Grown up anime fans are often dismissed as immature for enjoying “cartoons.”
2. Marginalization: Fans face discrimination from older generations who view East Asian media with racial bias.
3. Gender Stereotyping: Female fans are doubly marginalized, facing stereotypes from both non-fans and male-dominated fan communities.
4. Cultural Disconnect: Many fans feel alienated from Indian popular culture, finding greater relevance in Japanese culture.
Text Analysis
Using MAXQDA, a computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software, researchers examined the grammar and lexical devices in Quora responses. The analysis revealed patterns of invisibilization, mystification, and stereotyping, particularly in discussions about female fans. These women often engage with anime through subversion and negotiated readings, avoiding toxic male-dominated online spaces.
Conclusion
This study sheds light on the struggles of Indian anime fans, a subculture often overlooked in mainstream discourse. Despite the digital age providing a platform for these fans to connect and share their experiences, they continue to face social stigma and racial discrimination.
For Japanese anime to thrive in India, it must overcome cultural and racial barriers. Until then, Indian anime fans, especially women, will continue to navigate a challenging sociocultural landscape.
