29 Sep : India Tourism, Tokyo, Union Ministry of Tourism, co-sponsored “Namaste India” in Tokyo from 27th September to 28th September 2008.
It is a concept which started as a small event showcasing India in Japan but has over the years grown into a mega-carnival that celebrates the very best of India in the heart of Japan. Namaste India is a window to Indian culture and economy for the Japanese people – and is today one of the largest Indian festivals held overseas which celebrates Indian diversity and uniqueness through a vivid display of our culture, cuisine, entertainment and business.
The two day programme which included Dance, Music, Theatre, Workshops, Exhibitions and Indian Cuisine was attended by more than 1,00,000 Japanese. It was inaugurated by Shri H. K. Singh, Ambassador of India to Japan. The Raghu Dixit Performance which was sponsored by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations was well appreciated by an audience of thousands. The Indian cuisine varying from Jalebis to Chole Bhatura and Bhel Puri to Chilly Chicken were a hit and long queues could be seen outside Food stalls.
Incredible India branding was all over the exhibition ground and 10 Velo Taxis wrapped in images of India’s Tourism Products ferried visitors from the subway station to the exhibition grounds free of cost.
The tour Operators indicated that they received various queries on the new packages launched to India as well as some confirmed bookings. The India Tourism stall was flocked throughout the day and the interest shown by the Japanese populace reflects that there will be an upward swing in tourist flow from this market.