A warm cultural moment shared by ONO Keiichi, Japan’s Ambassador to India, has struck a chord with Indians online after he spoke about eating biryani by hand in Delhi and compared the experience to enjoying sushi in Japan.
‘Tastes better when eaten by hand’
Sharing photographs from Andhra Bhavan, Ambassador Ono wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that he followed his Indian friends and tried eating biryani with his hands. “Like sushi, it tastes even better when eaten by hand,” he noted, adding that the experience made him feel closer to his friends.
The post quickly drew attention for its simplicity and warmth, highlighting how food often becomes a bridge between cultures.
Celebrating Indian food traditions
Eating with hands is an integral part of Indian food culture and is deeply rooted in Ayurveda, which believes that direct contact with food enhances sensory connection and digestion. Ambassador Ono’s observation resonated with many Indians who view the practice not just as habit, but as tradition and mindfulness.
Biryani, one of India’s most loved dishes, was also the country’s most-ordered item on Swiggy in 2025. Originating in South Asia, it combines rice, meat or vegetables, and aromatic spices, and is traditionally enjoyed by hand in many regions.
Not his first biryani moment
This is not the first time the Japanese envoy has shared his fondness for Indian cuisine. During an earlier visit to Telangana, he had posted about enjoying authentic Hyderabadi biryani, praising its bold spices and addictive flavours.
Social media responds warmly
Netizens welcomed the ambassador’s openness with heartfelt comments. Many said it was his warmth and respect for Indian culture that truly brought people closer. Others appreciated the comparison with sushi, seeing it as a thoughtful way of connecting two rich food traditions.
The moment serves as a gentle reminder that cultural exchange does not always happen through formal diplomacy — sometimes, it begins with sharing a meal.