A Celebration Like Never Before: “Rising India, i.e., Bharat"

In a landmark celebration of India-Japan relations, Connect India Japan, under the visionary leadership of Ms. Nupur Tewari, hosted the inaugural edition of “Rising India, i.e., Bharat” on June 4, 2025, at the prestigious Akasaka Prince Hotel (Classic House), Tokyo. With the support of the Indian Embassy in Tokyo and The Japan-India Association, this women-led initiative marked a significant milestone—the first large-scale India-centric conclave in Japan curated and hosted entirely by an Indian woman who has spent over two decades bridging the two

cultures. The event brought together policymakers, diplomats, corporate leaders, and thought

influencers from both India and Japan to explore new frontiers of collaboration in diplomacy, business, technology, and cultural exchange.

Highlights of the Event

The day commenced with a gracious inaugural address by H.E. Mr. Sibi George, Ambassador of India to Japan, who emphasized the growing synergy between the two democracies and the power of grassroots diplomacy.

Mr. Kono Taro, Member of the Japanese House of Representatives and a respected voice in Japanese politics, delivered a keynote address that reflected on shared values, regional

security, and the potential of a deeper, people-driven alliance between India and Japan. Dr. Tomohiko Taniguchi, former Special Advisor to the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, gave a compelling special address, tracing the evolution of the bilateral relationship and urging both

nations to invest more deeply in cultural and strategic connectivity.

Panel Discussion 1: Diplomacy & Ties

This high-level panel brought together distinguished diplomats who have shaped the India-Japan story over the past decades: Ambassador Hiroshi Hirabayashi, Vice Chairman of the Japan-India Association, former Ambassador of Japan to India and France Ambassador Hideaki Domichi, former Ambassador of Japan to India, Iran, and Bhutan, and former Senior Vice President at JICA

The discussion offered rare insights into the nuances of diplomacy and explored how trust and mutual admiration have remained at the core of this unique bilateral bond.

Panel Discussion 2: Creating the New Wave of India-Japan — A Success Story for the Future The second panel brought together influential voices from Japan’s corporate and media sectors, each offering a unique perspective on the evolving India-Japan relationship.

Mr. Kazuya Nakajo of JETRO discussed how India continues to emerge as a key strategic

partner for Japan in trade and investment. Mr. Tsubasa Shiraishi (“Tsuby”) from Rakuten highlighted the growing synergy between the two nations in digital innovation and human capital. Mr. Kinji Saito of Suzuki Motor Corporation reflected on the deep-rooted trust and cooperation that define the automotive partnership between India and Japan. Mr. Satoshi Iwaki of Nikkei provided valuable insights into how India is increasingly viewed in Japan as a pivotal player in the region, both economically and geopolitically. Showcasing India’s Technological Strength

Throughout the day, Indian companies representing next-gen sectors took center stage with live presentations and demos, spotlighting India’s prowess in AI, digital infrastructure, sustainable solutions, and smart manufacturing. The showcase attracted great interest from Japanese counterparts looking for reliable, forward-thinking partnerships.

Evening Gala: Fostering Community and Cultural Exchange

The conclave concluded with a warm and engaging networking dinner, where delegates from government and industry came together to celebrate shared values, cultural connections, and the spirit of collaboration that defines the India-Japan relationship.

About Connect India Japan

It is more than a platform—it’s a movement powered by purpose and people. Founded by Nupur Tewari, it actively shapes the future of India-Japan relations through immersive storytelling, business collaborations, and cultural diplomacy. With bilingual magazine, podcast series, business portal and digital news portal offerings and impactful public initiatives, CIJ is creating a future where East truly meets East.

https://connectindiajapan.com/

About Nupur Tewari

Coming from a small village in India with no privileges or connections, Nupur Tewari is a living testament to resilience, vision, and transformation. Today, she is widely regarded as the people’s unofficial ambassador of India to Japan—an inspiring leader who has spent over two decades building bridges between the two nations. A renowned yoga expert, transformation and mindfulness coach, and the founder of Connect India Japan, Nupur has dedicated her life to empowering individuals, fostering cross-cultural dialogue, and promoting inner well-being. Her journey, marked by grit and purpose, continues to inspire change at both personal and global levels. Discover more about her mission and story at www.nupurtewari.com.

“Rising India, i.e., Bharat” was not just an event—it was a powerful affirmation of what’s possible when vision, purpose, and collaboration come together. As the curtains closed on this historic conclave, it left behind more than just conversations—it sparked new partnerships, ignited cross-cultural connections, and laid the groundwork for a stronger, more dynamic India-Japan future.