India Becomes ChatGPT’s Fastest-Growing Market Thanks to Ghibli Surge

In recent times, India has witnessed a remarkable surge in the adoption of ChatGPT, OpenAI’s conversational AI model. This growth is notably influenced by the nation’s burgeoning enthusiasm for Studio Ghibli, the renowned Japanese animation studio. This article explores the intertwining of India’s Ghibli fandom with the rapid proliferation of ChatGPT, positioning the country as one of the fastest-growing markets for this AI technology.​

The Ghibli Phenomenon in India

Studio Ghibli, co-founded by Hayao Miyazaki, has captivated audiences worldwide with its enchanting storytelling and distinctive art style. In India, the studio’s films have garnered a dedicated following, leading to a cultural phenomenon that transcends mere viewership. Fans engage deeply with Ghibli’s themes, aesthetics, and characters, fostering a vibrant community that celebrates and emulates the studio’s creations.​

ChatGPT’s Emergence in the Indian Market

ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, has revolutionized human-computer interactions with its advanced conversational capabilities. In India, the integration of ChatGPT into various sectors has been swift and widespread. A study by DeskTime revealed that as of March 2024, 92% of Indian workplaces had incorporated ChatGPT into their daily operations, with 42.6% of office workers actively using the AI tool—a significant increase from the previous year. ​

The Ghibli Effect on ChatGPT Usage

The convergence of India’s Ghibli fandom and ChatGPT’s capabilities has led to a unique trend: the creation of Ghibli-style art using ChatGPT’s image generation features. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “Ghibli effect,” has contributed to a record increase in ChatGPT usage. In April 2025, ChatGPT reached over 150 million active weekly users globally, a milestone attributed to the viral trend of generating Ghibli-style images. ​

Technological Advancements Fueling the Trend

The introduction of GPT-4o brought advanced image generation capabilities to ChatGPT, enabling users to create high-quality, stylized images. This advancement coincided with the Ghibli art trend, leading to unprecedented demand that temporarily overwhelmed servers and necessitated usage limitations. ​

Cultural Integration and Community Engagement

Indian users have seamlessly integrated ChatGPT into their creative pursuits, using the AI to produce art that resonates with Ghibli’s aesthetic. Online platforms and social media have become hubs for sharing these creations, fostering a collaborative environment where enthusiasts exchange tips, showcase their work, and celebrate their shared passion for Ghibli-inspired art.​

Economic Implications and Market Growth

The Ghibli-driven surge in ChatGPT usage has had notable economic implications. In-app subscription revenues and downloads reached all-time highs during the peak of the Ghibli art trend. India’s role as a significant contributor to this growth is evident, with the country emerging as OpenAI’s second-largest market and experiencing a tripling of users over the past year. ​

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The replication of Studio Ghibli’s art style through AI-generated images raises questions about intellectual property rights and artistic integrity. Current laws protect specific expressions rather than general artistic styles, creating a gray area in terms of legality. Furthermore, Hayao Miyazaki has previously expressed disapproval of AI-generated imagery, adding an ethical dimension to the discourse surrounding AI’s role in creative processes. ​

The Future of AI and Cultural Trends in India

India’s enthusiastic adoption of ChatGPT, fueled by cultural phenomena like the Ghibli effect, underscores the country’s potential as a leader in the AI revolution. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has acknowledged India’s significance, noting the tripling of users and emphasizing the nation’s importance to the company’s growth strategy. ​

As AI technology continues to evolve, the interplay between cultural trends and technological adoption in India offers valuable insights into how digital tools can enhance and be shaped by local cultures. The Ghibli frenzy’s impact on ChatGPT’s growth exemplifies the dynamic relationship between art, technology, and community engagement in the digital age.​