Otakus, gather round for a unique watch party

Anime has a funny way of sneaking into lives. One moment, someone is casually watching an episode to 'see what the hype is about,' and the next, it's 3 a.m., six seasons deep into a shonen series, passionately explaining to friends why One Piece is not 'a cartoon.'

- PARVANA K B

For years, anime fans in Thiruvananthapuram binged their favorite shows in their rooms. But that is changing now as the Onigiri Order, a small yet growing community, brings 'otakus' in the city together.

What began as a casual WhatsApp group has grown into a lively circle of fans who meet regularly to watch, discuss, and celebrate everything related to anime and manga.

Founded by Nishanth Samuel Fenn, the group held its first official event in June this year. Since then, the community has been organizing meetups, manga reading and coloring sessions, and trailer review discussions.

This Saturday marks its sixth gathering—a 'Bring Your Own Anime Watch Party' at Eve's Coffee in Anayara.