Why Are Anime Considered Cartoons in India?

In India, animation, anime, and drawing human-like things are often collectively referred to as 'cartoon'. This term is used as a general description rather than as a specific genre. It is not intended to offend anyone, but rather reflects the cultural differences in the way we perceive and categorize animated content.

As I began watching anime, I had to ask my friends if they watched 'Japanese cartoons'. Most of them didn't know what anime was, highlighting a significant gap in their knowledge. This lack of information led to the general misconception that anime is primarily meant for children.

The fact is, most anime does not air on television or other major platforms outside of children's programming. This has further reinforced the idea that anime is just another form of cartoon meant for kids. People assume that 'animation' and 'cartoon' are interchangeable terms, which is not entirely correct.

The Perception in Indian Culture

The perception that 'anime' and 'cartoon' mean the same thing in India stems from several factors:

Lack of Knowledge About Anime Content

There is a significant lack of awareness about the content and forms of anime. Most people in India are familiar with cartoons that are specifically marketed towards kids. Names like 'Chota Bheem', 'Motu Patlu', 'Oggy and the Cockroaches', and 'Roll No. 11' are commonly known and associated with children’s entertainment.

However, anime is a diverse form of art that serves various audiences, including teenagers and adults. Many popular anime series are designed with mature themes and complex storylines, far beyond the scope of children's programming. Unfortunately, this diversity is not easily accessible in mainstream media in India, leading to a narrower view of what anime can be.

TV Programming Focus

Most animated shows on Indian television are targeted at young children. While shows like 'Doraemon', 'Ninja Hattori Kiteretsu', and 'Shin-chan' are popular, they are mostly aimed at younger audiences. Even series like 'Shin-chan', which is originally intended for adults, is often dummied down for the Indian market to suit a younger demographic.

This focus on child-friendly content has led to a mindset among older generations and those who aren't exposed to anime that 'animation' and 'cartoon' are synonymous with kid-friendly content. As a result, the general perception is that any animated show is meant for children, regardless of its original target audience.

The Distinction Between Anime and Cartoon

Anime is a term specifically used for animation that is made in Japan, while cartoon is a more general term used in India to refer to any form of animation, including both Japanese and Indian-made content.

Example of Misconception

For instance, 'Shin-chan' is originally made for adults due to its continuous adult jokes and mature content. However, in India, the dialogue is often changed and the show is dubbed in a way that makes it suitable for children. This results in a version that is very different from the original, leading to the mistaken belief that all anime is for children.

Conclusion: A Call for Exposure

Even though there is a general perception that 'animation' is solely for children, it is a form of art that acts as a medium for spectacular storytelling. Unless younger generations take the initiative to explore anime through online content, they will continue to miss out on this treasure trove of storytelling and creativity. Watching just one episode can transform one's opinion about anime.

As we move forward, it is important to expose ourselves and others to a wider range of animated content. This will help break down the misconception that 'anime' and 'cartoon' are the same thing and allow for a more nuanced understanding of the diverse world of animation.