North East Japan Caravan 2025–26 underway in Kohima
Kohima, March 7 (MExN): Cultural identity lies at the heart of society and initiatives such as the North East Japan Caravan demonstrate how art, music and traditions can bridge geographical distances and connect people across nations, Advisor for Art and Culture K Konngam Konyak said.
He was addressing the inaugural event of the North East Japan Caravan 2025–26 at the State Academy Hall in Kohima on March 7.
The two-day cultural exchange programme is organised by the Japan Foundation and the Embassy of Japan in India in collaboration with the Department of Art & Culture, Nagaland.
Konyak further noted that events like the caravan highlight the power of cultural exchanges in bringing people together in meaningful ways despite geographical differences.
Meanwhile, Takashi Kobayashi, First Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in India, said the Japan Caravan has been organised through collaboration between the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the Japan Foundation to bring Japanese culture to people across the North-East.
He added that such exchanges deepen the relationship between Japan and India, built on mutual respect and cooperation, and strengthen people-to-people connections.
Kurumi Otake, Director (Art and Culture) at the Japan Foundation, New Delhi, noted that Japan’s ability to preserve ancient traditions while embracing modern innovation continues to inspire the world. She expressed hope that the caravan would spark greater interest in Japanese culture among people in Nagaland and the North-East.
Director of the Department of Art & Culture, Adela Moa, delivered the welcome address.
The programme featured welcome address by Adela Moa, Director of the Department of Art & Culture; a cultural performance by Governor’s Awardee Vetahulu Sapu and a companion, who presented a folk song accompanied by the traditional instrument tati.
A judo demonstration by the Nagaland Judo Association was also held as part of the event.
Japanese film screenings and interactive workshops on calligraphy, origami and yukata were conducted during the programme, providing participants with an opportunity to experience different aspects of Japanese culture.
Speakers at the event underscored the importance of cultural exchanges in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening cooperation between India and Japan, particularly through youth engagement, informed a press release from the Department.
The two-day North East Japan Caravan will continue on March 8 with further film screenings and cultural workshops in Kohima.
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