The Ambassador of Japan to India, Ono Keiichi, hosted Rajasthan’s Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari, at his residence in New Delhi, in a meeting that combined cultural tradition with diplomatic exchange.
The residence was prepared in Japanese style, with the Deputy CM being received in a tatami-matted room that featured a vertical calligraphy scroll. Keiichi, dressed in traditional attire, also prepared and served freshly whisked matcha tea in line with the Japanese philosophy of Chado — the Way of Tea.
Photographs shared online captured the warm interaction, including the moment Keiichi personally whisked the tea for Kumari.
Ambassador Keiichi shared details of the meeting on his official X account, writing: “Welcomed H.E. @KumariDiya, Deputy CM of Rajasthan, at my residence and served her freshly whisked #matcha, in the spirit of Chado - the Way of Tea. We shared a thoughtful conversation on boosting tourism between Japan and Rajasthan. May our cultural bridges grow ever stronger.”
The images accompanying his post showed the Japanese envoy serving tea and engaging in conversation with Kumari, emphasising both cultural hospitality and diplomatic intent.
Deputy CM Diya Kumari also posted about the meeting on her official X handle, expressing her gratitude for the welcome and highlighting the significance of the exchange.
She wrote: “Had the pleasure of being warmly welcomed at the residence of Mr. ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India, with freshly whisked matcha in the spirit of Chado – the Way of Tea. Ahead of my visit to Japan for the JATA Tourism EXPO, we discussed strengthening ties and boosting tourism collaboration between Rajasthan and Japan. Cultural exchanges like these highlight the beauty of shared traditions and the strength of building bridges between nations.”
Her remarks indicated that the meeting also carried forward preparations for her forthcoming visit to Japan, where she is expected to participate in the JATA Tourism EXPO.
The posts drew admiration from social media users, many of whom praised the cultural significance of the interaction.
One individual commented: “My sincerest respect for sharing your cultural way and values with us sir.”
Another user wrote: “Living in a Japanese style home in India is truly amazing.”
A further remark read: “Like the super clean and minimalist lifestyle,” while another user offered encouragement: “All the best to both of you in this initiative. We need more people to people ties.”
Several also appreciated the symbolic gesture of serving matcha tea. One comment summed it up: “Wow what a great way to welcome.”
The exchange was widely noted online as a demonstration of cultural respect, soft diplomacy, and the growing interest in strengthening ties between Japan and Rajasthan.
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