India Comic Book Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Digital, Non-Digital), By Format (Hard Copy, E-Book, Audiobooks), By Genre (Superhero, Manga), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

India Comic Book Market Size & Trends

The India comic book market size was estimated at USD 687.0 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.0% from 2025 to 2030. The demand for comic books in India is experiencing a notable resurgence, driven by a blend of cultural revivalism, digital transformation, cross-platform storytelling, and increasing youth engagement with visual narratives. Once a niche segment primarily targeted at children, the Indian comic book industry is now evolving into a vibrant cultural and commercial asset that attracts diverse readership across age groups and geographies.

The renewed interest in Indigenous storytelling and mythology-based content is a central factor behind this growth. Indian publishers such as Amar Chitra Katha and Raj Comics have re-engaged readers by revitalizing traditional narratives with modern illustrations and contemporary formats. Amar Chitra Katha, for instance, has expanded its portfolio to include graphic novels, audiobooks, and animated web series that reinterpret stories from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Indian folklore-thus appealing not only to nostalgic adult readers but also to digitally native younger audiences.

Further supporting this momentum is the rapid digitization of content delivery and consumption. The proliferation of smartphones, affordable internet access, and the growing popularity of digital reading platforms have enabled wider distribution and discovery of comic titles. Digital-first platforms like Pratilipi Comics and Graphic India have significantly expanded the reach of Indian comics, offering serialized graphic content in multiple regional languages and formats optimized for mobile viewing. Graphic India, for instance, has collaborated with global players like Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment and Netflix to create Indian superhero franchises such as “Chakra: The Invincible,” showcasing the cross-cultural viability of Indian narratives.

The rising popularity of comics as a legitimate literary and artistic medium among India’s urban youth has also been instrumental. With increasing exposure to global graphic literature-from Japanese manga to Western comics by Marvel and DC-Indian readers are now seeking high-quality local content that blends global aesthetics with regional sensibilities. Events such as Comic Con India, which has grown exponentially since its inception in 2011, illustrate this segment's robust community and consumer interest. For instance, the 2023 Delhi Comic Con recorded over 65,000 visitors, many of whom actively participated in comic launches, cosplay competitions, and creator panels.

Global franchises such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and DC Extended Universe (DCEU) have cultivated massive fan bases in India, leading to a surge in interest in original comic books. Indian audiences have responded enthusiastically to characters such as Spider-Man and Batman, sparking curiosity about the source material.

The rise in representation within the comic book industry has attracted niche audiences. Indian comics increasingly incorporate diverse characters and culturally relevant narratives, resonating with readers seeking relatable stories. For instance, graphic novels addressing social issues or featuring folk tales from various Indian states have gained prominence, tapping into the nation's rich heritage and cultural diversity.

The growth of online distribution channels has revolutionized the market, making it easier for readers to discover new comics and genres. Websites, e-commerce platforms such as Flipkart and Amazon, and independent creators selling directly to consumers have bolstered this trend. This online ecosystem allows fans to explore unique and diverse offerings, from indie comics to mainstream superhero stories, further accelerating the expansion of the Indian comic book industry.

Consumer Survey & Insights

According to the survey conducted by Start.io, a sell-side omnichannel advertising platform powered by real-time mobile audiences in India, comic book enthusiasts who enjoy reading, trading, and purchasing comic books and collectibles exhibit distinct age characteristics. Data reveals that 39% belong to the 25-34 age group, followed by 37.2% in the 18-24 bracket. The 35-44 category accounts for 20.7%, while older groups contribute minimally: 45-54 (2.1%) and 55+ (1%).

According to the same survey, comic book enthusiasts in India display a gender distribution where 55.6% are male and 44.4% are female.

Type Insights

Non-digital comic books held a revenue share of 79.9% in the overall India comic book industry in 2024. The tactile experience of holding a physical comic book resonates with readers, offering a sense of nostalgia and connection that digital formats often lack. This is particularly true for collectors who value printed editions' aesthetic and archival appeal. Moreover, regional language comics, which form a significant portion of the market, are predominantly available in print, catering to diverse linguistic audiences across India. For instance, comics such as "Tinkle" and "Amar Chitra Katha" have long-standing popularity in their physical forms. Furthermore, the cultural significance of gifting physical books during festivals and special occasions further bolsters the demand for non-digital comics.

The demand for digital comic books is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.0% from 2025 to 2030. The widespread adoption of smartphones and affordable internet services has made digital comics increasingly accessible, even in remote areas. Furthermore, India's young and tech-savvy population is drawn to the convenience of reading comics on the go through apps and platforms such as Webtoon and Pratilipi Comics. The growing influence of superhero franchises in Indian pop culture, fueled by blockbuster movies and series, has also heightened interest in the source material available digitally. In addition, digital platforms provide budding Indian creators a space to showcase their work, offering diverse and innovative narratives that appeal to a broader audience. Moreover, the affordability of subscription models for digital content has encouraged readers to explore comics without the constraints of physical formats.

Format Insights

Hard-copy comic books accounted for a revenue share of 79.9% in the overall India comic book industry in 2024. Print comic books offer a sensory and immersive reading experience that digital formats cannot replicate. High-quality paper stock, intricate cover art, and oversized deluxe editions appeal to readers who value the artistry and craftsmanship of physical publications. The resurgence of independent comic book stores, bookstores, and specialty retailers has strengthened the direct market for print comics.

The demand for e-books is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.2% from 2025 to 2030. The increasing penetration of smartphones and affordable internet access has made digital reading more accessible to a wider audience, including those in remote areas. Moreover, the convenience of carrying an entire library on a single device appeals to tech-savvy readers. The rise of regional language e-books has further expanded the market, catering to India's diverse linguistic population. Subscription-based models and platforms like Kindle and Google Play Books have made e-books more affordable and accessible, encouraging readers to explore a variety of genres. Moreover, the growing environmental consciousness among consumers has led to a preference for digital formats, which reduce paper usage and carbon footprints.

Genre Insights

The demand for science-fiction comic books accounted for a revenue share of 38.7% in India's overall comic book industry in 2024. The genre's ability to captivate readers with imaginative and futuristic narratives resonates strongly with India's tech-savvy and younger demographic. Popular franchises like "Star Wars" and "Doctor Who" have inspired Indian creators to explore similar themes, leading to the emergence of locally produced science-fiction comics. The growing interest in space exploration and technological advancements has also fueled curiosity, making science-fiction stories more relatable and appealing. Events like Comic Con India also significantly promote the genre, providing a platform for creators and fans to connect. 

The demand for manga comic books in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.0% from 2025 to 2030. Manga spans many genres, including action, romance, fantasy, slice-of-life, horror, and non-fiction, catering to diverse age groups and reader preferences. The availability of categorized formats such as shōnen (young male), shōjo (young female), seinen (adult male), and josei (adult female) has broadened its appeal beyond niche audiences. The expansion of digital manga platforms such as Shonen Jump, Manga Plus, and WEBTOON has facilitated seamless access to a vast catalog of titles, enabling international readers to consume content legally and affordably. Simultaneous digital releases and improved translation efforts have further accelerated global readership growth.  

Key India Comic Book Company Insights

The market is fragmented primarily due to several globally recognized players and regional players. Some prominent companies in the Indian comic book industry are Amar Chitra Katha, Diamond Comics, Disney, Image Comics, and DC Comics.

• Disney offers a diverse range of books, including picture books, storybooks, early readers, middle-grade novels, and young adult fiction. Its catalog features original stories and adaptations from Disney's extensive portfolio of movies, TV shows, and franchises such as Disney Princess, Mickey and Friends, Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar. In addition, Disney Books publishes interactive and educational titles, graphic novels, and tie-ins with the Disney+ series. With a commitment to inspiring imagination and creativity, Disney Books continues to captivate readers of all ages worldwide.

• Amar Chitra Katha (ACK) is a renowned Indian comic book publisher founded by Anant Pai. It specializes in creating comics based on Indian mythology, history, folktales, and biographies, aiming to educate readers about India's rich cultural heritage. The series includes iconic titles such as Krishna, Shakuntala, and The Pandava Princes. ACK has played a pivotal role in preserving and popularizing Indian stories, making them accessible to generations of readers.

Recent Developments

• In April 2025, Dharma Productions collaborated with Pratilipi Comics and unveiled the Yodha Universe with a thrilling comic book titled Adventures of Yodha: The Case of the Missing Ship. Presented by Amazon Prime and Dharma Productions, this eight-episode adventure follows protagonist Arun Katyal on a mission to solve the disappearance of a ship in the Arabian Sea. The comic is available in English and Hindi, with episodes released weekly on the Pratilipi Comics App.

• In November 2024, IDW Publishing launched a new version of its comics app, designed to enhance the digital reading experience. The free app includes popular titles like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Star Trek, along with features such as an upgraded search engine, options for horizontal and vertical reading, and offline mode for downloading comics.

• In October 2023, Image Comics launched Ghost Machine, a new creator-owned imprint. This shared universe will introduce three major titles: Geiger, Redcoat, and Rook: Exodus. Geiger, by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank, follows a radioactive survivor navigating a devastated America. Redcoat, by Geoff Johns and Bryan Hitch, tells the story of an immortal British soldier from the 18th century who is trying to uncover the mystery of his longevity. Rook: Exodus, by Geoff Johns and Jason Fabok, is a sci-fi adventure set on a hostile planet where the protagonist fights to escape. Ghost Machine aims to provide interconnected narratives across different genres, emphasizing creator ownership and fresh storytelling. 

India Comic Book Market Report Scope

India Comic Book Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the country level and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the India comic book market based on type, format, and genre:

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Digital

  • Non-Digital

• Format Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Hard Copy

  • E-Books

  • Audiobook

• Genre Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Science-Fiction

  • Manga

  • Superhero

  • Non-fiction

  • Others