Indo-Japanese cultural fest begins today

 The 13th edition of the two-day ‘Japan Habba’, an Indo-Japanese cultural festival, will begin on Saturday with a host of events at St Joseph’s College auditorium. The festival is aimed at strengthening the bond between India and Japan.

Junichi Kawaue, Japan’s Acting Consul General, Bengaluru, said that the festival will open with a screening of ‘Persona Non Grata’, a film that depicts the life of a Japanese diplomat who defies his country’s orders to save more than 6,000 Jews during the outbreak of World War II.

“We should note the coincidence here. We are organising the film when (United States) President Donald Trump has taken steps to block refugees. Our festival will highlight the need for integration,” he said.

Japanese Association of Bengaluru Chairman Akinori Urakawa said that there are over 175 Japanese companies in Bengaluru as the city offers favourable climate and a thriving culture.

“Japanese artistes will sing Kannada songs, perform
Kannada skits and dance to Bollywood numbers. In turn, Indians will sing a fusion
of Indian and Japanese

songs and walk the ramp in a Kimono fashion show,” he said.
The festival will be inaugurated by Japanese Ambassador to India Kenji Hiramatsu on Saturday.

On Sunday, the event will begin at 9 am and conclude by 6 pm.

Events
As part of the festival, an array of events have been planned, including Sado (Japanese tea ceremony), try on a traditional Japanese Yukata, Ikebana, Origami, play traditional Japanese games, watch skits and dances.