Fictional characters come alive at first Cosplay in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The lucid ambience of Deras under Chandaka National Park on the outskirts of Odisha capital had some guests last evening. Nathan Drake came out of the video game to celebrate solitude with his friend Naruto, who came all the way from Japan. Just as they both enjoyed with Agent 47 and Aiden Pearce, Joker came probing, "Why so serious? Let me put a smile on that face." Professor Eddie Murphy also joined in adding a bit of his humour to all the seriousness with the Players Unknown Battlegrounds militias.

Picture Courtesy: Nerds United

Amid the hush-hush of trees and creaking branches due to winter wind, all of these popular fictional characters had some time away from virtual space.

Picture Courtesy: Nerds United

These characters spreading their aura out in Odisha capital was a part of 'Cosplay', organized in the state for the first time. Cosplay is an activity where the participants usually disguise themselves as their favourite characters. These participants are termed as 'cosplayers'.

Picture Courtesy: Nerds United

This was an activity to inculcate 'Cosplay' activities in city denizens and also showcase the talent Odisha has. While Cosplay is full of fun and laughter, it also involves a deeper insight into the characters so as to play them well. “Cosplay is not just about wearing the costume of your favourite character. The key lies in how you feel, connect and execute your performance," said the team leader, Amlan Panigrahi.

Picture Courtesy: Nerds United

Cosplay events have been happening in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bangalore where participants are given cash prizes. “The cosplay community over there (other cities) is highly mature. Give and take 5 years, Bhubaneswar will reach that level within that time span,” he added.

Picture Courtesy: Nerds United

There were youngsters all the way from Balasore and Rourkela to participate in the Cosplay picnic organized by the nerd community of Odisha, 'Nerds United'.