It is interesting to know more about Indian culture and festivals. Indian festivals seem to be very colourful and are more in number than in any other country”, says Kotoko, a home maker from Japan during the Festivals of India for the Sakurakai Ladies Association organised by Indian Japan Initiative (IJI) along with Ista in the city.
The session was organised in line with IJI’s objective to build bridges between the people of India and Japan at all levels. The session was aimed at giving the Japanese women an insight into India’s rich and vibrant culture. They were treated to an Indian experience replete with the ceremonial aarti, gajra and bangles.

The programme started with the traditional way of lighting the lamp followed by an introduction about the importance and role of Indian festivals.

Main festivals including Makara Sankranti, Onam, Ugadi, Dussehra, Diwali, Eid were elaborated on. The stories behind the festivals, the various customs integral to them were explained along with their significance along with details of how they are celebrated in different parts of the country. The Japanese women were surprised to know that in India New Year is celebrated again in April, as Ugadi.

Geetanjali Kirloskar, chairperson, IJI, said, “Festivals play such a key role in promoting the spirit of brotherhood and harmony in our diverse society. The session gives these Japanese women an opportunity to understand Indian society and culture. We believe that connecting at an emotional level brings people close together.”
IJI has earlier organised cultural events, yoga classes, saree exhibitions, bridal make-up sessions for it’s members. Also seminars and workshops on origami and kimono have been conducted for Indians by the IJI.