Saitama Initiative: Bon Odori and Takoyaki Shine in India! Experience Japan-India Friendship at OJF2025
The nonprofit organization Japan India Club, based in Asaka City, Saitama Prefecture, will host the “ODISHA JAPAN FESTIVAL 2025 (OJF2025)” on February 9, 2025, in Puri, Odisha, India. This cultural fusion music festival brings together Japanese and Indian traditions, transcending borders, languages, ages, and socioeconomic differences.
The event features highlights like free takoyaki distribution (using cheese and corn instead of octopus) to share the taste of Japan with local children and traditional Japanese Bon Odori dancing. The lively atmosphere will transform the seaside of Puri into a festive scene reminiscent of Japan’s summer festivals.
Additionally, a crowdfunding campaign is underway to support the event. Proceeds will go toward donations of school supplies and musical instruments for local children. Contributors can even have their names displayed as part of the takoyaki stand or venue decorations.
OJF2025 embodies the vision of Tsuyoshi Miyahara, who moved to India in 2014 to study the classical Indian percussion instrument tabla and later founded a drum school. His efforts to inspire children through music have culminated in this festival, which symbolizes Japan-India friendship.
Join this heartwarming project! Support is open until February 8. Let’s create a memorable day connecting Japan and India together!
