New Delhi: Attention all aspiring artists and animators in India! The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, along with the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), has launched a nationwide contest called WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!). This exciting initiative aims to cultivate and showcase Indian talent in the ever-popular realms of anime and manga.
A Platform for Creativity and Recognition
WAM! offers a unique opportunity for aspiring artists and animation teams to create original content based on provided scripts. The contest features three categories: Manga (individual), Webtoon (individual), and Anime (team). Each category has separate student and professional divisions, catering to a wide range of skillsets.
What’s Up for Grabs?
WAM! isn’t just about competition; it’s about providing a launchpad for aspiring creators. Winners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to prestigious international events like Anime Japan, along with recognition on a national stage.
How to Participate?
The best part? Participating in WAM! is completely free! Registration is open now on the WAM! website www.meai.in/wam
The Road to the Finale
WAM! will be conducted in two stages: state-level competitions across 11 cities and a national-level finale. The state-level events promise to be bustling affairs, featuring not just the competition but also an expo and job fair connecting participants with industry opportunities. The celebration concludes with fun activities like cosplay competitions and musical performances.
Key Dates and Locations
Mark your calendars, aspiring creators! Here’s a glimpse into the WAM! schedule across various cities:
- 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
A Boost for the Indian Creative Landscape
WAM! is more than just a contest; it’s a significant step towards nurturing Indian talent in the animation and manga industry. As the Secretary of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju, stated, WAM! aims to “elevate Indian talent on a global stage” and inspire a new generation of creators. This initiative aligns perfectly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Design in India, Design for the World.”
Ready to Showcase Your Skills?
So, if you’ve been harboring a passion for anime and manga, WAM! is your chance to shine. Get ready to unleash your creativity, participate in the competition, and potentially see your work reach a global audience!
