Pikachu Gets Indian Makeover With Kurta & Saree For Pokémon Festivities

The Pokémon Company has unveiled a special Indian look for Pikachu as part of its Pokémon Festivities campaign to celebrate the festive season in India.

The announcement was made at a grand event in Mumbai on Oct 16, 2024, with Pikachu dressed in traditional Indian attire for the first time.

The male Pikachu sports a navy-blue kurta with a beige vest, while the female Pikachu is seen in a pink saree

These outfits feature subtle cultural elements, such as a Mago Berry pattern symbolizing India’s national fruit, the mango, alongside the signature Poké Ball motif.

Pikachu, in this new avatar, will make appearances across various events and in-game features in the coming months.

A key highlight is the integration of Pikachu’s festive look into the mobile game Pokémon GO, where players can catch the traditional Pikachu between Nov 1 and 4, 2024.

Trainers will also be treated to bonuses and special in-game activities during this event.

Additionally, the celebration includes the launch of limited-edition Pokémon Festivities Gift Boxes by Yakult Danone India, available until Oct 31, 2024.

Priced between INR 336 and INR 400, these boxes feature the traditionally attired Pikachu and will be sold across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, with delivery services through Yakult’s network.

The festivities will extend to a dance video featuring Pikachu on Pokémon Kids TV, blending Indian and Japanese dance styles. The video will also feature Japanese influencers Mayo Japan & Kaketaku.

Fans will also have the opportunity to meet Pikachu in person at the Pokémon Mela, a three-day event set to take place at Phoenix Marketcity in Pune from Dec 6 to 8, 2024.

The event promises a variety of interactive activities, stage shows, and photo opportunities for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Susumu Fukunaga, Corporate Officer at The Pokémon Company, expressed excitement about Pikachu’s Indian transformation. “By presenting Pikachu in traditional attire, we aim to bring joy and foster a deeper connection with fans in India during this festive season

Omar Tellez, Vice President of Niantic, shared his enthusiasm about the development, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce Pikachu’s Indian look into Pokémon GO. This festive season will be celebrated with exciting raids, bonuses, and in-app events, creating interactive ways for Indian Trainers to enjoy Pokémon GO.”

With a mix of digital and on-ground events, the Pokémon Festivities campaign is aiming to create memorable experiences for fans and strengthen Pokémon’s engagement in the Indian market.