CRY launches Hashira as India’s first anime hero championing children’s curiosity

Senior Correspondent

NewsBits.in

NEW DELHI: Child Rights and You- CRY, a leading child rights organisations, on December 8 unveiled its first-ever original anime character ‘Hashira’, a symbolic defender of children’s right to question, learn, dream, and grow.

In a unique storytelling approach inspired by popular anime universes, Hashira represents a guardian who rises in a world where “demons” attempt to silence young minds-demons that take the form of child labour, exploitation, lack of education, poverty, and anything that dims a child’s natural curiosity, a CRY statement said.

Her strength comes not from weapons or magic, but from every child who asks a question, imagines a possibility, or pursues a dream.

Explaining the intent behind this initiative, Soha Moitra, Regional Director, CRY, said, 

“Curiosity is one of the most powerful forces in a child’s life. It pushes them to explore, understand and create. Through Hashira, we want to remind the world that when curiosity is protected, children rise beyond every limitation.”

She added that the character is designed to spark conversations around child rights in a language and visual style that connects deeply with India’s youth.

“Anime inspires millions because it shows ordinary individuals transforming into extraordinary heroes. That spirit resonates strongly with CRY’s vision. Hashira embodies the message that no darkness can overpower a curious young mind.”

As part of this initiative, CRY has created immersive visual content, illustrated narratives, and symbolic representations of the real-life challenges children face.

These story elements show children overcoming metaphorical demons with courage and creativity-reinforcing the idea that every young person has a role in supporting children’s rights.

Hashira’s emergence also reflects CRY’s ongoing efforts to engage new-age audiences, particularly young people who are expressive, socially aware, and eager to participate in meaningful causes.

Through creative characters and storytelling formats, the organisation aims to build a movement where youth become champions of child rights.

“Heroism isn’t limited to pages or screens,” Moitra said. “Hashira is a reminder that every young person has the power to stand up for India’s children. By speaking out, taking action, and protecting childhood, they become real-life heroes. There is a hero in each of us-it’s time to celebrate the Hero In you.”