Tokyo, July 21: Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Monday lauded the grand cultural showcase “India i.e. Bharat 2025: Celebrating Amritkaal” held in Tokyo, calling it a powerful symbol of the growing people-to-people ties between India and Japan.

He described the event as an extraordinary confluence of civilizational values and cultural synergy, underscoring the deepening friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.

Minister Shekhawat, Mayor of Edogawa city in Tokyo Takeshi Saito, Indian Ambassador to Japan Sibi George and his wife Joice Sibi jointly inaugurated the festival of India, i.e. Bharat 2025, a 12-hour non-stop performance organised by the Embassy of India and Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Tokyo.

Addressing the event virtually, Shekhawat mentioned that the event will showcase the rich culture and diversity of India. He emphasised that the programme on Monday aptly resonated with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose leadership several steps had been taken in India, including “India’s cultural vision of ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’.

“This is the first of its kind programme outside India, and this cultural marathon is truly extraordinary as it showcases the confluence of Japanese and Indian spirit where Japanese artists who have dedicated themselves to mastering Indian classical dance, music and martial art stand alongside Indian artists in Japan to present a grand symphony of our shared cultural journey. This is the true spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam': the world is one family,” he stated.

“Indian cultural heritage is a vibrant and ancient tapestry woven from diverse traditions, religions, languages and art forms. It encompasses tangible aspects like historical monuments and architectural marvels, as well as intangible elements such as music, dance, festivals and philosophical thoughts. This rich heritage spanning thousands of years continues to shape the nation and captivate the world,” the Minister added

Shekhawat further stated that “India and Japan have civilisational relations which began with the transmission of Buddhism to Japan.”

He stressed that the strong relations between the two countries can be further strengthened by enhancing people-to-people exchanges.

“The event is testimony to the increasing people-to-people connections between India and Japan, and the persistent efforts of the Indian Embassy in Japan to further these ties,” the Minister noted.

Meanwhile, a captivating Kathak performance by the Masako Satou group added elegance and rhythm, reflecting an enchanting blend of grace, footwork, and expression as the event began.

“Artist Erina Kasai performed a graceful Bharatanatyam piece during India, i.e. Bharat 2025 – 12 Hours of Non-Stop Performances. An elegant expression of devotion through classical dance,” Embassy of India in Japan posted on X.

(IANS)

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