Gujarati Kem Chhe meets Japanese Konnichiwa in Mini Japan Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, India — The spirit of enduring friendship and cultural harmony between India and Japan took center stage in Ahmedabad as the Indo-Japan Friendship Association (IJFA), Gujarat, proudly launched its Golden Jubilee celebrations on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Hotel Hyatt Regency.

Commemorating 50 momentous years since its establishment in 1975, the event, themed Kem Chhe – Konnichiwa, offered a vibrant evening that elegantly merged Gujarati warmth with Japanese refinement. The celebration drew a distinguished gathering, with Keiichi Ono, Ambassador of Japan to India, in attendance as the Chief Guest. His presence underscored the deep-rooted and growing ties between the two nations.

The evening began with a warm Meet & Greet session titled “Yokoso,” where attendees enjoyed exchanging pleasantries, reflecting on past collaborations, and reinforcing bonds of friendship. It was closely followed by the ceremonial launch of the Golden Jubilee Celebration, amidst cheers and calls of “Kampai.” This traditional Japanese toast officially marked the commencement of a year-long series of activities dedicated to strengthening cultural, economic, and social exchanges between India and Japan.

Joining Ambassador Ono for the ceremonial launch were Mukesh Patel, Honorary Consul of Japan in Ahmedabad, Gujarat; Dr. Savan Godiawala, President of Ahmedabad Management Association (AMA); and Ms. Kyoko Hokugo, Minister of Economic and Development at the Embassy of Japan in India.

Together with other dignitaries such as Puneet Baijal, GM, Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad, and other bigwigs, including Harshad Jhatakia, they released Japan Artopedia, a commemorative publication highlighting “Timeless Arts Woven Together… Unfolding the Japanese Spirit!”

The book elegantly showcased a variety of Japanese art forms, including Literary Arts, Fine Arts, Performing Arts, and Martial Arts, offering guests a deeper insight into Japan’s rich cultural tapestry.

While quoting JETRO figures, Mukesh Patel informed that Gujarat symbolizes “Mini Japan” with 500 Japanese nationals living and working there, 160 Japanese manufacturing units, and 350 business establishments.

Ambassador Ono stunned all when he began his speech in the Gujarati language, uttering “Naamaste Mitron, Kem Chhe! 9Hello friends! How are you!), and the entire ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad hotel was echoing with thunderous applause of the attendees. We went on to speak – Mera naam Keiichi Ono hai aur mai Japanee rajdoot hoon” (My name is Keiichi Ono and I am the Ambassador of Japan).

Following the book launch, guests were treated to a remarkable culinary experience titled Oishii. This exclusive seven-course sit-down dinner artfully combined Japanese culinary techniques with Gujarati flavors under the theme “Nippon no Swaad… Gujarati Andaaz ma!” The fusion menu took guests on an unforgettable gastronomic journey, symbolizing the blending of two unique culinary traditions into one harmonious experience.

The evening wrapped up with a Sayonara session, leaving attendees with cherished memories and a renewed sense of cultural kinship.

The entire celebration was inspired by the Honorary Consulate of Japan in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and generously supported by Hotel Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad. Beyond the immersive cultural and culinary program, guests also received complimentary copies of Japan Artopedia and Inspirations from Japan – Nippon’s Memoirs to Treasure, treasured mementos encapsulating the essence of Japanese artistry and spirit.

Guests were encouraged to dress in smart casual attire and to occupy their allocated seats promptly in time for the ceremonial Kampai and sit-down dinner Oishii, ensuring a seamless and dignified experience throughout the evening.

Over the past five decades, IJFA Gujarat has enjoyed unparalleled recognition and goodwill, pioneering the vision of transforming Gujarat into the “Mini-Japan of India.” As it stepped into its 50th year, the Kem Chhe–Konnichiwa celebration stood as a testament to the association’s unwavering commitment to fostering deep-rooted ties, cultural exchange, and mutual respect between India and Japan.