Japanese ministers join Indian embassy for Diwali event in Tokyo

Japanese Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Hisayuki Fujii, Justice Minister Takashi Yamashita and India’s Ambassador to Japan Nagma Mallick inaugurated a Diwali celebration hosted by the Indian Embassy in Tokyo on Nov 6, featuring Indian classical music, dance and a variety of Indian food, The Shillong Times reported.

Embassy’s social media message

In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Japan said, "Celebrating Diwali with friends. Embassy was pleased to host representatives of Govt of Japan, Parliamentarians and friends of India for a wonderful evening celebrating the Festival of Lights." The post added, "Ambassador Mallick, along with Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Hisayuki Fujii and Justice Minister Takashi Yamashita inaugurated the celebrations. The evening witnessed captivating performances of Indian classical music and dance and a tapestry of Indian food, bringing the best of India to our friends in Japan."

Parallel celebrations abroad

The Shillong Times noted that on Thursday the US Embassy in India also marked Diwali, with US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor posting on X, "Great to celebrate Diwali at our Embassy in New Delhi. Wishing all who are observing the holiday a very Happy Diwali!" The article highlighted that the United States recognises Diwali at high governmental levels and mentioned that the festival is observed by Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities, as well as some Buddhist communities.

Global observance of Diwali

The report referenced municipal recognition of Diwali in New York City, which began observing the festival as a holiday for public schools in 2023, with the first school closure occurring in 2024. It also cited substantial Indian-origin populations in New York, New Jersey and the San Francisco Bay Area, where temple celebrations, cultural performances and community gatherings are common.

Other regional activities

According to the article, on Nov 2 Singapore High Commissioner to India Simon Wong shared pictures of Singapore streets decorated for Diwali. The festival itself is scheduled for Sunday, Nov 8, on the occasion of Kartik Amavasya, when homes and temples are illuminated with earthen lamps and decorative lights. Devotees traditionally perform prayers to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, seeking blessings for happiness, peace and prosperity.

Significance of the Tokyo event

The Shillong Times framed the Tokyo celebration as an example of cultural diplomacy, bringing "the best of India" to Japanese friends through music, dance and cuisine. By involving senior Japanese ministers, the event underscored bilateral goodwill and highlighted Diwali’s growing visibility on the international stage.