Studio Ghibli films have a magical way of whisking us back to childhood. They bring the beauty of everyday life – delicious food, lively streets, and nature's wonders – into fantastical stories. This focus on simple joys resonates with our childhood selves. The fantastical elements themselves, blend in with relatable themes of friendship, self-discovery, and growing up, create a sense of wonder and possibility.

Although these films are set in Japan, the emotions and nostalgia they evoke are universal. The meticulous attention to detail in their visuals not only makes us yearn for our idealized childhoods but also prompts us to reflect on our past experiences.

What sets Ghibli's films apart is how they lace elements of fantasy into the personal journeys of their characters. This unique approach draws viewers in, presenting realistic emotions in a dream-like setting. Watching these animated films, you're often surprised by just how deeply they resonate with the human experience.

Many of us likely experienced similar flights of fancy in our own childhoods, perhaps while wandering the streets of Mumbai. As children, our surroundings often seemed animated; further fueling our imaginations and adding magic to our everyday lives.

Aditya Raj shares this sentiment and connects Studio Ghibli films to his upbringing. As an artist, he portrays the ordinary, the mundane, and the often overlooked facets of everyday existence. A self-taught painter based in Delhi, Aditya Raj has long been a fervent admirer of Studio Ghibli's works, envisioning the beloved characters within the backdrop of Indian locales. His fusion of the Ghibli universe with iconic spots in Bombay, such as Nirula’s, Kyani & Co., and the renowned Haji Ali Juice Centre, reflects a nostalgic intertwining of his artistic pursuits and personal experiences.

Among his work, one can witness Kiki soaring on her broom across the landscapes of Kolkata while passing by landmarks like Peter Cat, Oly Pub, Broadway Hotel, and Kusum Rolls. In celebration of Hayao Miyazaki's recent Oscar win, Aditya shared his extensive collection of Ghibli-inspired paintings, expressing gratitude for the profound influence Miyazaki's work has had on his artistic journey. Reflecting on the studio's ability to make narratives with unprecedented beauty, warmth, and sensitivity, Aditya pays tribute to the enduring impact of Ghibli on his art. .

You can buy prints of his Ghibli-inspired artwork here.

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