Finance minister Sitharaman’s anime admiration stuns X users: 'Best thing she’s done’

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's tweet praising anime legend Hayao Miyazaki has captured the imagination of X users, revealing an unexpected side to the Indian politician.
Sitharaman's tweet, which congratulated Miyazaki on receiving the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award, has led many to speculate that she may be an anime fan. The award, often likened to Asia's Nobel Prize, was given to Miyazaki in recognition of his influential work with Studio Ghibli.Known for masterpieces such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke, Miyazaki's films are celebrated for their artistic beauty and thoughtful exploration of complex themes.

Anime’s rising popularity and influential figures
Studio Ghibli’s official X post highlighted Miyazaki’s contributions, noting how his work has helped children grasp complex issues through art. This recognition underscored the increasing global influence of anime, a genre that has firmly established its presence in India and beyond with popular series like Naruto and Attack on Titan.
Unexpected reactions from X users
The tweet from Sitharaman has generated a flurry of reactions from X users, ranging from surprise to delight. One user questioned, “Wow, didn’t expect this tweet. Is this Twitter hacked?” showing their astonishment at the unexpected post.
There was a sense of enthusiasm among fans who felt a newfound connection with the Finance Minister. “There’s something magical about anime. Knowing that this woman loves and appreciates it as much as we do, I now cannot bring myself to dislike her for what she’s done to taxes,” remarked one appreciative follower.


Another user expressed their surprise, saying, “I never expected a government official, let alone a sitting minister, to talk about anime. But here we are. I was surprised, and I like it.”
The tweet also prompted some to reassess their views on Sitharaman. Comments like “This is the best thing she’s done in her entire tenure” and “Became your fan today, FM ji... Miyazaki-san is the best” reflect a positive shift in public perception.
A broader perspective on the Ramon Magsaysay Award
This year’s Ramon Magsaysay Awards also honored other notable figures, including activists and educators from Vietnam, Bhutan, Indonesia, and Thailand, recognizing their exceptional contributions to society. Miyazaki's accolade places him among a distinguished list of previous awardees, including Mother Teresa and the Dalai Lama.
Sitharaman's tweet, while surprising, has opened a window into her personal interests and resonated with anime fans, showcasing the unexpected ways in which politicians can connect with the public.