TV Asahi, in collaboration with PVR INOX Pictures and Happening 365, recently hosted the much-awaited Indian premiere of “Shinchan – The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India” on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Japanese Film Festival within the vibrant Mela! Mela! Anime Japan!!.
The premiere turned into a colorful celebration, with the film’s director Masakazu Hashimoto gracing the event alongside none other than Shinchan himself. Fans were thrilled to interact with the iconic character, making the evening truly unforgettable.
Produced by Shin-Ei Animation, TV Asahi, ADK Emotions, and Futabasha, with animation by Shin-Ei Animation, the film follows Shinchan and his friends on a lively adventure in India—the “nation of dance.” From savoring chapatis to greeting everyone with a cheerful “Namaste!”, the premiere screening gave audiences a delightful glimpse into Shinchan’s Indian journey. The story takes a dramatic turn when Bo chan undergoes a transformation after encountering a mysterious backpack, pushing the Kasukabe Guard to band together in a heartwarming rescue mission set against the colorful backdrop of India.
Director Masakazu Hashimoto said: “It’s hard to believe it’s been almost two years since I first visited India for location scouting. The sights, people, and emotions I experienced there deeply inspired Shinchan: The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India. I’m grateful to everyone who made this release possible and to the fans who have been eagerly waiting. I’m excited to bring you laughter, smiles, and surprises through Shinchan, and I look forward to celebrating together with my return to India.”
Kamal Gianchandani, CEO, PVRINOX Pictures, said: “We are excited to bring Shinchan: The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India to the big screen. Shinchan has been loved in Indian homes for over two decades, and this film’s vibrant take on Indian culture makes it even more special. It’s a true Indo-Japanese celebration of storytelling without borders.”
The Japan Foundation expressed its delight in hosting the Indian premiere of the new Shinchan film at the Japanese Film Festival, calling it a special moment to be shared with Indian fans.
Meanwhile, the Mela! Mela! Anime Japan!! Committee shared their honor at being chosen by TV Asahi to introduce the film in India for the very first time. They highlighted how Shinchan has become more than just a movie—it represents a world of TV anime, beloved characters, music, dance, and collectibles, all of which brought an added layer of excitement to the festival experience.
With its blend of humor, cultural exchange, and heartfelt storytelling, Shin chan: The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India is set to be a highlight of this year’s Japanese Film Festival. The Indian premiere not only celebrates the enduring popularity of Shin chan across generations, but also strengthens the cultural bridge between Japan and India. Fans are encouraged to join Mela! Mela! Anime Japan!! and experience Shin chan’s most spicy adventure yet on the big screen.
Though the premiere brought an early taste of the fun, audiences across India won’t have to wait long. The film is set for a nationwide theatrical release on Friday, September 26, 2025, in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, promising to spread Shinchan’s mischief and charm to fans everywhere.
The excitement surrounding this film has only grown stronger following Shinchan’s recent triumph at Anime India, where it bagged two top honors at the ANN Award—including Best International Animated Feature Film and Best Animated Licensed Character (International). These accolades, along with the buzz from the premiere, have set the stage for one of the year’s most anticipated anime releases in India.
