Crack cosplay like a pro

Madhu Gudi as Chikage Kazama from Hakuouki

Want to attend Comic Con dressed as your favourite character, but don't know where to begin? Worry not, because all you need to do is head to a cosplay workshop organised by Comic Con India as a precursor to the main event, which will be held on October 22 and 23."

If you're new to the term, cosplay is a contraction of the words 'costume play,' and involves dressing as a character from a film, book, or video game.

Rhea Chowdhury as Mikasa Ackerman from Attack on Titan

"This workshop is perfect for those who have never cosplayed before," says Rohan Jain, who will be conducting the workshop along with two other professional cosplayers, Madhu Gudi and Rhea Chowdhury.

Cosplaying is extremely popular in international circuits, with some professional cosplayers enjoying almost-celebrity status. Its growth in India has been steady but gradual, says Jain, adding that the Indian Cosplay Community page on Facebook now has over 3,000 members.

Rohan Jain

So, you're in luck if you're among this growing tribe of enthusiasts, as the session will take you through the process of crafting your costume - how to do your make-up, where to find inexpensive props and material, and how to stitch your own outfit when your neighbourhood tailor kicks you out of his shop.

"On average, it takes a week or two to finish a costume if you're juggling work or studies. However, at the workshop, we will also touch upon last-minute cosplaying, which shows you how you can perfect your look within a few hours," adds Jain.

Nux from Mad Max: Fury Road

There will also be a lesson on cosplay etiquette - how to conduct yourself at the event, how to pose for the cameras, as well as important dos and don'ts. Ready to play your part?

Cosplayers at international comic conventions. Pics/AFP

On September 11, 4.30 pm to 7.30 pm
At The Irish House, Grand Galleria, Phoenix Mills Compound, Lower Parel.
Free