Japanese pop culture icon Shin chan is gearing up for a colourful return to Indian screens with the premiere of his latest film, Shin chan: The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India, at the Japanese Film Festival 2025. The movie, which takes the mischievous character and his friends on a vibrant journey across India, will premiere on September 14, 2025, before a nationwide theatrical release later in the month.
The film follows Shin chan and his gang as they arrive in India, billed as the “nation of dance,” to participate in a high-energy entertainment festival. Along the way, they sample Indian cuisine, including chapatis, and greet people with cheerful “Namaste” wishes. Against a backdrop of music, colour, and humour, the film promises laughter, excitement, and heartwarming moments for audiences of all ages.
Director Masakazu Hashimoto revealed that the inspiration for the project came from his own experiences in India. “It’s hard to believe that nearly two years have passed since I first visited India for location scouting. The incredible sights, the wonderful people I met, and all the emotions I felt there inspired Shin chan: The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India. I’m absolutely thrilled that the film, packed with those experiences, is finally coming to India,” he said.
Hashimoto also expressed gratitude to the teams involved in the production and release of the film, as well as to Indian fans who have supported Shin chan for decades. “I want to extend my thanks to everyone who worked tirelessly to make the Indian release possible, and to all the fans in India who have been eagerly waiting. This release also gives me the fantastic opportunity to return to India, meet fans, and celebrate the film together. I can’t wait to see all the surprises and share these new experiences with everyone. See you soon, India!” he added.
The film’s Indian release is scheduled for September 26, 2025, across theatres nationwide. It will be dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, ensuring wider accessibility for Shin chan’s large fan base in India.
For many households, Shin chan has been a constant fixture for nearly two decades, airing on television and winning popularity with his mischievous humour and quirky personality. The decision to create a film set in India is being seen as a nod to the character’s enduring connection with Indian fans.
Kamal Gianchandani, CEO of PVRINOX Pictures, said the project reflects the power of cross-cultural storytelling. “We are thrilled to bring Shin chan: The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India for our audiences to enjoy on the big screen. Shin chan has been a beloved character in countless Indian homes for the last two decades. Moreover, this film’s vibrant depiction of Indian culture makes it all the more special. At PVRINOX Pictures, we are committed to showcasing the very best in global content, and this Indo-Japanese cinematic celebration is a perfect example of storytelling without borders,” he said.
The production of the film has been managed by Shin-Ei Animation, TV Asahi, ADK Emotions, and Futabasha, with Shin-Ei Animation leading the animation work. Hashimoto’s directorial role continues his legacy of bringing Shin chan’s humorous and relatable adventures to international audiences.
The premiere at the Japanese Film Festival 2025 is expected to draw anime fans, cultural enthusiasts, and families alike. With its colourful setting, cultural references, and universal appeal, the film is being touted as one of the year’s biggest entertainment offerings.By blending Shin chan’s familiar mischief with India’s vibrant cultural backdrop, The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India is poised to celebrate not only the joy of animation but also the growing exchange between Indian and Japanese popular culture.
