The Indian government has unveiled a series of 12 animated portraits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a style reminiscent of Studio Ghibli. Shared on the social media platform X, the images were accompanied by the caption, “Main character? No. He’s the whole storyline. Experience New India in Studio Ghibli strokes,” quickly sparking widespread discussion online.

PM Modi’s Ghibli image

The artistic initiative captures Modi in various public engagements, including meetings with international leaders such as Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron. It also emphasizes his nationalistic image, featuring representations alongside the Indian Tricolour and in military attire. Additionally, key government projects like the Vande Bharat train, a Tejas fighter jet sortie, a visit to the Maldives, and the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan are highlighted.

Digital trend

This creative endeavor taps into the growing popularity of AI tools, which replicate the pastel-hued, dreamlike aesthetic of Studio Ghibli films, made famous by legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki. However, the timing has created an ironic juxtaposition, as a video clip of Miyazaki criticizing AI-generated animation as an “insult to life” resurfaced alongside the portraits.

The stylized portraits offer a unique and fantastical twist to Modi’s public image, reflecting the government’s engagement with contemporary digital trends. 

Netizens React

A user with the handle ‘Pramod 0929’ describe the portraits as ‘Best Thread’

Another user with the handle name ‘@Dhvanidesai16’ attributed PM Modi as the best PM