Bengaluru: Around 300 guests gathered at the Ritz Carlton on Residency Road to celebrate Japanese Emperor Naruhito’s 65th birthday in an event that beautifully blended Japanese traditions with Bengaluru’s vibrant spirit.
Nakane Tsutomu, the Consul General of Japan in Bengaluru, hosted the Japanese National Day reception, bringing together key figures from various industries and government sectors to foster cultural and economic ties between Japan and India.
The evening commenced with the traditional ‘Kagami Biraki’ ceremony, where a sake barrel was broken open. Karnataka’s Minister for Large and Medium Industries, MB Patil, along with Principal Secretary for Commerce and Industries Selvakumar, Kirloskar Systems CMD Geetanjali Kirloskar, Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayanand, and Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Nobuaki Yahiro, participated in the ritual.
Following this, an electrifying drumming act by Bangalore Wadaiko Kai set the tone for the night. Martial artists Yuki Okajima and Praveenken SV captivated the audience with a gripping Kobudo demonstration. Japanese brands like Nissin, Canon, and Japan Airlines also showcased their presence through exclusive stalls.
The highlight of the evening was when the musical group Royal Echo took the stage with over 20 performers. Their rendition of Dr. Rajkumar’s classic Hutidare Kannada Nadalli Hutta Bekku and the viral hit Naatu Naatu sparked an enthusiastic response, with even elderly attendees joining the dance floor, making it a night to remember.
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