India, Aug. 31 -- The worldwide popularity of Naruto continues to surprise its own director, Hayato Date, who says he is still trying to understand why the Japanese anime has connected so strongly with audiences across the globe.
Date visits India for Anime India
Date was in Mumbai for the three-day Anime India event held from August 28 to 30, where the growing popularity of anime in India was on display. During an interaction with Hindustan Times, the director spoke about his connection with India and the possibility of working with Indian creators.
Date said that while Naruto is deeply rooted in Japanese ninja culture, he has occasionally incorporated Indian influences into the backgrounds and scenery. This was his first visit to India...