From Dosa to Ganga: Diplomat Keichi Ono’s Reflections on India’s Culture

While visiting Rishikesh on September 6, Japanese Ambassador Keichi Ono combined two of his recent passions – food and faith – by taking a full‑body dip in the Ganges and later sharing the episode on X. He highlighted that the cold river water sparked a feeling of awe and gratitude that stayed with him long after he emerged.

The post also served as a culinary diary. Ono recalled savoring a crisp masala dosa paired with aromatic filter coffee at Tamil Nadu House on August 18, and enjoying fluffy dhokla and cool chaas at Gujarat Bhavan on August 8. He mentioned a special tea‑culture exchange held at the UN House on May 22, where Indian chai met Japanese matcha, illustrating how both countries celebrate hospitality.

Earlier in May, the ambassador visited the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan, where he was served a traditional thali alongside Prime Minister’s special adviser Uno Yoshimasa, ending the meal with the sweet “double ka meetha.”

Across these experiences, Ono underscored that India’s vibrant culinary scene and its timeless spiritual practices are key pillars of the growing India‑Japan relationship.