Mumbai, September 10: Crossword, India’s leading omnichannel bookstore chain, today announced the nationwide launch of Manga Mania, a category-defining initiative that positions the brand as India’s #1 destination for Manga books. It plans to stock over thousands of original Manga books across its network of bookstores. The campaign marks Crossword’s bold move to own, scale and celebrate manga culture across the country with the largest curated collection of 100% original and piracy-free manga titles.
Spanning 133 Crossword stores nationwide and a robust online platform, Manga Mania brings the world of Manga to life through vibrant, in-store experiences. The month-long (Date: 10th Sept to 10th Oct) initiative will feature cosplay events, Scratch & Win contests, and fan-first activities for Manga and anime communities across India. The curtain-raiser was held at Crossword’s Kemps Corner store in Mumbai in the presence of Consul-General Ms Hitomi Sato, bringing together manga fans, anime enthusiasts, readers and publishing partners.
Speaking at the event, Ms Hitomi Sato, Consul-General of Japan in Mumbai, said, “Books know no boundaries, and Manga is a wonderful example of that. It brings Japanese stories, imagination and creativity to readers across the world. It is heartening to see such genuine enthusiasm for Manga in India, and initiatives like Crossword’s are helping bring readers and creators closer together. Making original Manga more accessible is also a meaningful way of recognising and respecting the creators and publishers behind these stories.”
A core focus of the initiative is access to original editions. With pirated and unauthorised copies widely available, Crossword’s collection ensures readers can enjoy stories in their intended form while supporting the authors, illustrators, publishers and creators behind them.
Aakash Gupta, MD, Crossword Bookstores, said, “We have seen a very strong interest in Manga from Indian readers, and it is exciting to see how the category is becoming a part of their reading and collecting journeys. Through this initiative, we want to make it easier for fans to find the stories and characters they love, discover new titles and, importantly, enjoy original editions. The scale of what we are planning reflects how much potential we see in Manga and our belief that there is a much larger community of readers waiting to discover it.”
The Kemps Corner curtain-raiser is the first step in Crossword’s larger manga-focused plans. The brand will continue to create dedicated spaces and immersive experiences across its stores, giving fans a place to discover new series, revisit favourites and connect with a growing community that shares their passion for Japanese storytelling. With Manga Mania, Crossword is not merely participating in the category; it is leading a nationwide movement that invites readers to Read It. Live It. Cosplay It.
