Your social media feed is probably filled with dreamy, hand-painted visuals labelled “Ghibli-style”—from celebrities to everyday users, everyone seems to be trying it. But what exactly is Ghibli, and why has it taken over the internet?
What’s the story behind Ghibli art?
Studio Ghibli was founded in Japan on June 15, 1985, by legendary animators Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, along with producer Toshio Suzuki. The studio’s name, “Ghibli,” is derived from the Italian word for a hot desert wind, symbolising its mission to bring a fresh breeze to the animation industry.
Today, a new version of the OpenAI chatbot ChatGPT lets users transform their personal images into Ghibli-style anime.
The studio’s influence extends far beyond Japan, inspiring generations of artists and animators worldwide. Its films are known for their rich storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and deep themes exploring nature, identity, and human resilience.
Beyond commercial success, Ghibli is revered for its meticulous hand-drawn animation, use of watercolor backgrounds, and philosophical depth that resonates with audiences of all ages. The studio is known for its strong female protagonists, immersive worlds, and narratives that blend Japanese folklore with universal human experiences.
In 2001, Studio Ghibli opened the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, offering fans an interactive experience with behind-the-scenes insights into their creative process.
Even after Miyazaki’s brief retirement in 2013 (before his return for The Boy and the Heron in 2023), Ghibli remains a cornerstone of global animation, influencing artists, filmmakers, and pop culture worldwide.
AI meets Ghibli: what do Indian artists think?
While it has turned out to be a ‘fun thing’ for many on the internet, there is another group of netizens who question this move by ChatGPT. Why? For two reasons, one Ghibli anime makes scary images look dreamy and nice to the eyes, and secondly, a few artists feel that it devalues the work of real artists.
We spoke to Krishna (name changed), Game Designer at a leading organisation in India, who explained, “Having been associated with games and digital art for over 2 decades now, I’ve had the good fortune to explore a variety of art styles as an artist and one draws inspiration from a number of sources. In an age of AI, it has become imperative to us, as artists, to explore various AI tools to quickly churn out multiple ideas with just a click of a button.”
Krishna shared his perspective, “Although I feel that art cannot be replaced altogether by AI, it has definitely made inroads into the art production pipeline, saving a great deal of time in the creation of manual traditional art. Is it my personal opinion that AI-generated imagery steals the soul out of traditional art?”
He shared that AI-driven image generation tools are programmed to take human-made art sourced from the internet, and then effectively remixed or even closely copied without proper attribution to the original creator, creating copyright concerns.”This makes us wonder – where is the line between Inspiration and Infringement?”
Another Chennai-based artist, Muralidharan Alagar said, “We put in a lot of creativity while working on a piece, be it the colours we choose or the basic idea of the art itself. When so much effort goes into just one piece, it’s sad to see that people are creating an art piece in just one click.”
While every innovation has its own pros and cons, Ghibli too has its own advantages and disadvantages, agreed Muralidharan.
“I see that a lot of people have started recognising art forms because of AI and Ghibli. Earlier, we only had one option of displaying our works, that is, exhibitions, now things have changed so much that we have AI, which encourages people to recognise and involve themselves in art forms,” he said.
Another artist from Puducherry, Rajkumar Sthabathy suggested that no AI can ever replace the efforts an artist puts in. “My work portraits a lot of my character, and that makes a lot of difference. I wonder if AI can do that,” smiled Rajkumar. He expressed confidence that no AI tool can replace an original work.
Mumbai-based artist Vikrant Dattapreya Shitole, who specialises in watercolour paintings, said, “It is a concern when we see AI take up so much space in our life, but it’s never a threat to an artist. The main purpose of art is expression and satisfaction, which AI can not provide. Also, it is ethically not right to use art and anime by AI.”
AI might be transforming art today, but have you ever wondered about the traditional Indian art forms that have stood the test of time? While social media is flooded with Ghibli-style AI creations, India’s own visual storytelling traditions—like Madhubani, Kalamkari, and Raja Ravi Varma’s painting style—have mesmerised audiences for generations. What makes them so unique?
Beyond the AI hype: Have you seen these timeless Indian art forms?
While Ghibli-style AI art has taken over social media, it has also reignited discussions about artistic originality, effort, and ethics. Many artists agree that AI can never replicate the soul of human-made art. But beyond this debate, there’s another exciting conversation to be had—one about India’s incredible artistic heritage.
Instead of chasing fleeting digital trends, why not celebrate and explore homegrown art forms that have stood the test of time? From the intricate strokes of Madhubani to the storytelling magic of Amar Chitra Katha, these styles offer a glimpse into India’s rich artistic traditions.
Madhubani
Madhubani, also known as Mithila painting, is a traditional Indian folk art known for its intricate patterns, bold lines, and vibrant use of natural colors. It typically depicts mythology, nature, and cultural themes using geometric and symmetrical designs.
Its origin
This art form dates back to at least the 7th century and originates from the Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal. Traditionally, it was created by women on the walls of their homes during festivals and special occasions as a form of storytelling and religious expression.
How it’s used today
Madhubani has evolved beyond murals and is now seen in contemporary fashion, home décor, stationery, and even digital art. It remains a celebrated art form, gaining international recognition and being adapted in modern design while preserving its cultural essence.
Amar Chitra katha
Here is one style that is quite popular and close to how Ghibli studio anime looks. The comic book publisher illustrates stories based on religious leaders and epics. This style of illustration has enthralled both adults and kids for generations.
Its origin
This series was first founded in 1967 by Anant Pai. The word Chitra katha means, Chitra (picture) and katha (story). The motive of this kind of publication was to simplify complex texts into illustrations so that it is easy to consume for kids.
How its used today
The Indian series, even today, is considered as a cultural phenomenon even today among readers. It is available online, as books and on digital platforms.
Kalamkari
The word Kalamkari translates to ‘pen work’. This style of art is found in the textile industry and like Amar Chitra Katha, Kalamkari to depicts mythology and nature.
Its origin
Kalamkari’s roots date back to around 3000 years ago in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This form of art was initially used by musicians and painters to narrate mythological stories on huge canvas. These canvases were found in temples usually.
How its used today
Even today, this art form is considered as a top pick among buyers. Thanks to its intricate designs and natural dyes that make it look bright and vibrant on fabrics. Today, there are two types of Kalamkaris: Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam. Srikalahasti style depicts free-hand paintings, while Machilipatnam is block-printng.
Raja Ravi verma painting style
Ghibli might be cool, yes. But how about having an image generated in Raja Ravi Verma’s style. Classy would be the right word. Raja Ravi Verma paintings have always depicted South Indian women in the European academy art style.
Its origin
Raja Ravi Verma was born in Kilimanoor, Travancore. His talent in art was recognised and encouraged by his maternal uncle. Sri Chithra Art gallery where Raja Ravi Verma’s paintings are exhibited was started in 1935 to develop the taste of art among people.
How its used today
The iconic paintings today are used as framed prints, for calendars and posters and at religious centres to depict Hindu deities and mythological figures.
As AI continues to shape the art world, let’s not forget the beauty of hand-crafted traditions. Instead of simply following the latest trends, why not explore and support India’s incredible artistic heritage? The next time you admire an AI-generated piece, take a moment to discover the real artists and styles that have been shaping our culture for centuries.
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