In a graceful display of cultural exchange and diplomacy, Japan’s Ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, recently welcomed Rajasthan’s Deputy Chief Minister,
Divya Kumari, to his New Delhi residence. The envoy, dressed in traditional Japanese clothing, received her in a tatami-floored room decorated with a vertical calligraphy scroll. As part of the warm reception, Mr. Keiichi personally prepared and served freshly whisked matcha tea, reflecting the Japanese art of Chado — the Way of Tea. "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," wrote Mr Keiichi on X (formerly Twitter). "We shared a thoughtful conversation on boosting tourism between Japan and Rajasthan. May our cultural bridges grow ever stronger."
The deputy CM also shared details of the meeting on her official X account, where she expressed her appreciation for the gesture and underlined the cultural value of the interaction.
"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," she wrote.
Ms. Kumari further mentioned that she will soon travel to Japan for the JATA Tourism Expo and that such interactions would pave the way for stronger partnerships and tourism initiatives between Japan and Rajasthan.
"Cultural exchanges like these highlight the beauty of shared traditions and the strength of building bridges between nations," she added.
Following the release of photographs from the meeting, social media was abuzz with admiration for the ambassador’s hospitality and the cultural symbolism of the moment.
"I really like the calm and minimalistic vibe of your home H.E. Ambassador. Dhanyawad for letting us see your home. Arigatou gozaimasu," wrote one user. Another remarked: "This is unparalleled diplomacy."
A third reaction read: "Man I love this ambassador. Diya ji looking beautiful in this setting."
And another admirer commented: "From the Pink City to the Land of the Rising Sun. Princess of Jaipur embraces the grace of the Japanese tea ceremony."
