In India, many anime series were first introduced to audiences through TV channels like Cartoon Network, Hungama TV, Disney Channel, and Pogo, often dubbed in Hindi (Anime Shows Indians Think Are Cartoons). As a result, a lot of people in India grew up thinking of these shows as “cartoons,” not realising they were originally Japanese anime. Here’s a list of the top 5 anime that most Indians commonly know or refer to as cartoons:
Number 5: Beyblade (2001)
Directed by: Toshifumi Kawase
Studio: Madhouse
Beyblade featured spinning top battles and exciting tournaments. Indian kids collected the original Beyblade toys and loved the series. Still, they often thought of it as a cartoon based on toys.
In truth, Beyblade is a Japanese anime based on Takara Tomy’s toy line. It focuses on friendship, strategy, and competitive sports. The mix of marketing, toys, and TV branding made many Indians think of it as a simple cartoon.
Number 4: Dragon Ball Z (1989)
Directed by: Daisuke Nishio
Studio: Toei Animation
Dragon Ball Z was every Indian kid’s favourite action show of the 90s. It is the story of Goku and his friends who defend the Earth from powerful enemies. Packed with energy blasts, battles and transformations, it instantly captured the attention of Indian audiences. (Anime Shows Indians Think Are Cartoons)
Dragon Ball Z is one of Japan’s most iconic anime series created by Akira Toriyama. Yet, in India, many considered it an action cartoon due to its Hindi dubbing and Toonami slot on Cartoon Network.
Number 3: Pokémon (1997)
Directed by: Kunihiko Yuyama
Studio: OLM, Inc.
Pokemon became a cultural phenomenon around the world. Indian audiences loved Pikachu and the exciting battles, but considered it a generic cartoon.
However, Pokemon is a Japanese anime franchise started by Satoshi Tajiri. It has a mix of adventure, friendship, and competitive spirit. The anime teaches teamwork, loyalty, and growth. Despite its anime roots, it was aired alongside shows like Tom and Jerry, leading many to label it a cartoon. (Anime Shows Indians Think Are Cartoons)
Number 2: Shinchan (1992)
Directed by: Mitsuru Hongo
Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
Shinchan is another series that Indian audiences consider a cartoon. It revolves around a mischievous five-year-old boy named Shinchan who causes chaos at home and school.
Originally a Japanese anime created by Yoshito Usui, Shinchan touches upon themes of family, relationships, and everyday struggles. Its humorous, slightly adult jokes made it a hit among Indian teenagers. Nevertheless, many still classify it as a simple cartoon due to its fun tone. (Anime Shows Indians Think Are Cartoons)
Number 1: Doraemon (1973)
Directed by: Tsutomu Shibayama
Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
Doraemon is one of the most recognisable shows in India. It features a robot cat from the future who helps Nobita with gadgets. For most Indian kids, Doraemon was just a fun cartoon with cool gadgets.
In fact, Doraemon is a Japanese anime created by Fujiko F. Fujio. It first aired in 1973 and later became a massive success in India. Its combination of science fiction, friendship, and moral lessons defines it as a classic anime. (Anime Shows Indians Think Are Cartoons)
