Capes, comics and community: Hyderabad Comic Con hits its stride on day two

Hyderabad: There’s something about walking into Comic Con, the instant shift in energy, the laughter, the carefully crafted costumes, and that electric buzz of belonging. On Day 2 of the Maruti Suzuki Arena Hyderabad Comic Con, powered by Crunchyroll, that feeling doubled. The crowds were bigger, the cosplay brighter, and the excitement unmistakably louder.

A Pop Culture Playground

From Marvel and manga to fantasy worlds and futuristic gaming, Hyderabad’s HITEX Exhibition Centre turned into a universe of its own. Fans of all ages, some dressed as wizards, others as web-slingers, drifted through aisles lined with comics, collectibles, and art. For many, this wasn’t just an event; it was a reunion with the stories and characters that shaped their imagination.

Over 80 exhibitors filled the venue, each booth buzzing with eager collectors and curious first-timers. Independent artists displayed vivid illustrations, small publishers sold limited-edition comics, and local creators found a stage alongside global brands.

“It’s not just about pop culture anymore,” said one exhibitor. “It’s about community, about finding people who get what you love.”

Music, Movement, and Laughter

The main stage kept the day alive with performances that cut across genres. Stand-up comic Syed Bashaar kicked things off with a sharp, witty act that poked fun at fandom stereotypes and daily life with equal flair.

The tempo rose when Kayden Sharma hit the stage. His hip-hop act, equal parts poetry and pulse, had the crowd grooving, phones in the air, as beats echoed through the arena.

But perhaps the most unexpected moment of the day came from the Tanushree Dance Crew (Artista), who blended Bharatanatyam with modern choreography in a seamless fusion performance. The audience watched in awe as classical grace met contemporary rhythm, proof that art, much like fandom, evolves beautifully when worlds collide.

DreamHack: Hyderabad’s Gaming Arena

For gamers, the DreamHack zone was where the real action happened. It wasn’t just about playing; it was about connecting. Top creators like Payal, Jonathan, V3nom, Zgod, Sharkshe, Bachu, Dobby Mizo, and Lolzzz turned the stage into a shared playground, engaging with fans, trading challenges, and breaking that thin line between player and viewer.

Every screen flickered with focus and excitement; every shout echoed the spirit of friendly rivalry. For many, it was a reminder that gaming, too, has become a cultural language, one that everyone speaks differently, but passionately.

A City That Loves Its Stories

As the sun set over the venue, the crowd showed no signs of slowing down. Cosplayers posed for photos till the last minute, friends shared snacks and stories, and merchandise bags grew heavier with every hour.

For Shefali Johnson, CEO of Comic Con India, it was a sight that summed up the city’s spirit:

“The energy on Day 2 of Hyderabad Comic Con 2025 was absolutely electrifying! Everywhere you look, fans of all ages thronged the space and immersed themselves in the best weekend of the year! From meeting artists, clicking selfies with their favourite characters in cosplay, or diving into immersive experiences throughout, Hyderabad fans have such a special love for pop culture. Their creativity and passion make Comic Con and DreamHack here truly one of a kind. It’s so heartwarming to see people travel from far and wide just to be part of this celebration.”

Setting the Stage for Day 3

As Hyderabad’s Comic Con heads into its final day, the energy continues to build. Sunday promises more cosplay, more performances, and the grand finale that fans have been waiting for.

For now, though, the spirit of Day 2 lingers, a reminder that in a world full of deadlines and routines, sometimes it takes a cape, a comic, and a crowd that understands, to make you feel like you belong.