Mumbai: Otaku is a Japanese word that refers to people who love and have a keen interest in anime, manga or relevant video games. These Otakus live and breathe anime. India too has a great fan following when it comes to anime, and the craze here is real. Over the past two decades many anime series have been translated in various Indian languages. However, some Otakus prefer the original voice overs in Japanese language, with subtitles. So if you are a seasoned Otaku, you would have seen all these top anime shows and wouldn’t mind a rewatch. If you are a beginner, let us introduce you to the best shows, that are short series as well as multi season long running shows.
Naruto
You would have to be living in a cave if you haven’t heard of this famous anime series. This Japanese manga series is the story of Naruto Uzumaki, who hopes to become the Hokage or the head of his village. The story is in two parts, dividing his life into childhood years and teen years. The show has won Best Female Vocal Performance in an anime television series and OVA in a supporting role for the BTVA Award in 2014. Currently, it is being distributed in India by KC Global Media via Animax on JioTV. Enjoy this one in original Japanese VO, with subtitles.
Death Note
This psychological thriller about the life of Light Yagami, a high school student is thrilling yet amusing. The student discovers a book with mysterious powers that can kill anyone whose name is written on it. Light starts writing the names of hardened criminals on it, eradicating wrong. This 37 episode show is a typical anime, and perfect for somebody who wants to begin watching anime. It is available on HULU.
One Punch Man
The show is currently streaming on Animax on JioTV in India with original Japanese VO. This show won the Sugoi Japan Award as well as the Spanish Manga Barcelona Award in 2017. It is the story of Saitama, who can defeat any villain on the face of the earth with just one punch. With time gets weary of these easy wins and yearns for better adventures in life. He teams with his protégé Genos to target monsters and other worldly creatures. Doused with humor, the action comedy series is a treat to watch.
Horimiya
This is a 13 episode romantic comedy which follows the life of Hori and Miyamaru. The series streaming on Prime Video is about these two classmates who initially seemed like people with different outlooks, but later realised that the two have much more in common. The rom com anime series has a slice of life stories and will be apt for those who are just beginning their anime love journey.
LUPIN the third
This historical anime show made its debut in 1967. It follows the life of Lupin III, grandson of thief Arsene Lupin and their gang. The show has had more than ten theatrical releases, six tv series and currently Part five is exclusively available on JioTV in India. The criminal gang is headson with law enforcement forces as well as rival criminals, and must finish the heist before either of them come to know of it. Full of adventure, and nostalgia factor, watch this one for old time’s sake and know about how anime started.
Blood of Zeus
This is an American adult fantasy action series made in anime style. Earlier known as Gods & Heroes, it chronicles the life of the illegitimate son of Zeus. The young man has a herculean task to save heaven and earth from the impact of vengeance of goddesses and their monstrous forces. Streaming on Netflix, watch the epic unfold.
Demon Slayer
Streaming on Netflix, it explores the tale of a family that is besieged by demons. There are only two survivors—Tanjiro and his sister Nezuko, who is transforming into a demon. Finally, Tanjiro decides to train as a demon slayer in order to heal his sister and get revenge on his family. While the tale is familiar in terms of characters, animation, and setting, this Shounen anime is not. This edge of the seat action series keeps you hooked till the end.
Taraqdora!
This 2008 anime is about Ryuuji Takasu, a high school student who develops a friendship with Taiga, a toughie who helps him evolve. This high school anime is apt for those who love this genre. With great characters and a powerful storyline, the storyline has its moments when you cannot hold yourself from getting awed by the cute protagonists. It is currently streaming on Netflix, and you can binge watch it.
Kuroko’s Basketball
This sports anime is the winner of Tokyo Anime Award 2013 for TV category and is currently streaming on Animax as well as Netflix. This story of an underdog high school basketball team has their eyes set on making their place in the national team. The protagonist, Tetsuya Kuroko is at loggerheads with the team of his former friends. He will leave no stone unturned to ensure that they reach their goal. This will be apt for beginners to get a sneak peek into sports anime, as there are many more.
InuYasha
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video, this manga is a shonen classic of the 90s. It is the story of fifteen-year-old Kagome Higurashi, who finds herself transported to Sengoku-era Japan where she meets a half-dog demon named Inuyasha. The two go on adventures across the countryside, and are on a mission to find the powerful Shikon Jewel. This action fantasy show handles the dark themes brilliantly, which is what made it so popular.
Sagrada Reset
It is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Sagrada Reset is a supernatural-themed mystery tale set in Sagrada. Here, citizens are born with unique supernatural abilities. It follows the life journey of young Kei Asai, who meets Misora Haruki, who has the power to reset whatever is around her as far back as three days. Kei, who has a photographic memory, is the only one who can know. Find out where the two will go.
