Our events bring India and Japan together through a 360° platform of business, leadership, culture, ideas, and meaningful connections. From high-level conferences and business forums to community and cultural gatherings, every event is designed to inspire people, create opportunities, foster collaboration, and strengthen the bridge between two nations.
Connect India Japan proudly hosted the Japanese Fine Art Exhibition in collaboration with the prestigious Kasagi Gallery from Kamakura, which boasts a rich legacy of over 100 years, on February 23rd to 25th in Gurgaon, followed by an exhibition from March 1st to 3rd, 2024, in Chandigarh. The Gurgaon event featured a teaser party at Lumax, where we were honored by the presence of legendary painter Dr. Jatin Das and esteemed dignitaries.
In Chandigarh, the exhibition was held at the Govt. Museum and Art Gallery, Sector 10-C, in association with the Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, and showcased renowned Japanese artists who traveled from Japan to present their exceptional works. The opening ceremony in Chandigarh was graced by Mr. Rajeev Verma, Advisor to the Administrator of UT Chandigarh, adding prestige to the event. Special thanks to Mr. Ramnik Singh Ji, who is the soul of this entire process. This event provided a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to experience the beauty of both traditional and contemporary Japanese art, further strengthening the cultural bonds between India and Japan.
On June 17, 2026, Connect India Japan successfully hosted Rising India 2, its flagship India-Japan Business Conclave, at the historic Akasaka Prince Classic House in Tokyo. For the first time, a sitting Finance Minister of Japan, a Member of the House of Councillors, the Ambassador of India to Japan, the President of Suzuki Motor Corporation, and senior figures from across Japan’s diplomatic, defence, and policy establishment shared a single stage before more than 100 attendees.
Speakers included H.E. Ms. Satsuki Katayama, Finance Minister of Japan; H.E. Mr. Keiichiro Asao, Former Minister of the Environment and Member of the House of Councillors; H.E. Ms. Nagma Mohamed Mallick, Ambassador of India to Japan; Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki, Representative Director and President of Suzuki Motor Corporation; Ms. Akiko Okumura, Executive Vice President of JETRO; Dr. Tomohiko Taniguchi, Special Advisor and Speechwriter to the late PM Shinzo Abe; H.E. Mr. Umio Otsuka, Chief Priest of Yasukuni Jinja, Former Ambassador and Vice Admiral (Ret.), JMSDF; and Dr. Lekh Juneja, Chairman of Kameda Seika Group. A panel featured Mr. Rakesh Kochhar, Senior Vice President & Global Head of Auto Finance & Insurance at Nissan Motor Corporation; Mr. Ajay Singh, Senior Executive Advisor at Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL); and Mr. Dhruv Anand, Country Head & Managing Director of Wipro Japan.
The day featured keynotes, panels, an exclusive lunch, an evening dinner, and the crowning of the new Ms. India Japan — a historic gathering that redefined what the India-Japan relationship can look like.
After two unforgettable years of hosting the Tokyo Cup in Delhi, this legacy proudly crossed borders for the very first time with the successful debut of the Delhi Cup – Indo Japan Golf Tournament in Tokyo on March 27th, 2026.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tokyo’s iconic cherry blossom season, the golf course was truly spectacular—offering a serene and picture-perfect experience that elevated every moment on the greens. The day began with a warm and welcoming breakfast, bringing together players and guests in a relaxed setting before the tournament commenced.
As the game unfolded, participants showcased impressive skill, focus, and sportsmanship, making the competition both exciting and inspiring. Following the round of golf, a well-curated award ceremony was held to recognize excellence on the course, where the top three performers were honored for their outstanding gameplay and dedication.
The experience seamlessly transitioned into a networking lunch, where meaningful conversations, new connections, and collaborative opportunities took shape in an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere.
More than just a sporting event, this first-ever edition in Tokyo stood as a powerful celebration of India–Japan friendship—blending sport, culture, and connection into one truly successful and unforgettable experience.
Connect India Japan successfully hosted the Rising Sun Conclave 3 on 26 February 2026 at the India International Centre, New Delhi, bringing together distinguished diplomats, policymakers, industry leaders, and strategic experts from India and Japan.
A deeply moving video message from Mrs. Akie Abe, wife of the late former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, set the tone for the event. She reflected on Mr. Abe’s strong bond with India and acknowledged the efforts of Connect India Japan in continuing people-to-people diplomacy.
The welcome address was delivered by RJ Sharat Bhattatiripad (Fever FM), who highlighted the inspiring journey of Ms. Nupur Tewari, Founder of Connect India Japan, whose work over the past two decades has played an important role in building bridges between India and Japan.
The inaugural address was delivered by Mr. Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog and India’s former G20 Sherpa, who spoke about India’s growing global influence and the importance of strong partnerships such as India and Japan. Mr. Takashi Ariyoshi, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Japan in India, reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to cooperation in infrastructure, innovation, and sustainability.
A key highlight of the conclave was the presentation of the India–Japan Excellence Award to Shri R. C. Bhargava, Chairman of Maruti Suzuki India Limited and Padma Bhushan awardee, recognising his extraordinary contribution to strengthening the historic Maruti–Suzuki partnership and advancing India–Japan industrial collaboration.
The conclave also featured a high-level panel on “Defence, Geopolitics and the Modi–Abe Vision for the Indo-Pacific”, with distinguished speakers including Mr. Sujan R. Chinoy, Director General of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analysis; Mr. Sanjay Kumar Verma, Chairman of RIS; Mr. Raj Srivastava, Dean of the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service; Dr. Anand Ranganathan, Author and Scientist; Mr. Sandeep Unnithan, Editor-in-Chief of Chakra News; and Mr. Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation.
Another panel explored industry, tourism, and cultural collaboration, featuring Mr. Kenichiro Toyofuku (Director – Sustainability, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.), Mr. Deepak Jain (Chairman & Managing Director, Lumax Industries Ltd.), Mr. Markus (Managing Director, Asahi Travel Service and Director Governor, ICCJ), Ms. Neha Pranay Nath (Founder, ILOVEJAPAN DMC), and Mr. Prasenjit K. Basu (Founder and Chief Economist, Real-economics.com).
Through insightful discussions, cultural performances, and networking sessions, Rising Sun Conclave 3 once again highlighted the multidimensional nature of India–Japan relations, reinforcing the shared vision of cooperation, innovation, and strategic partnership between the two nations.
Connect India Japan successfully hosted the Indo–Japan Networking Bonenkai 2025 on 5th December 2025 at Nirvanam Restaurant, Atago, Japan, bringing together professionals, founders, creators, and community members for an evening of meaningful networking, cultural exchange, and year-end celebration. The gathering reflected the spirit that drives Connect India Japan: building lasting connections between India and Japan while fostering collaboration, learning, and community.
A highlight of the evening was the Special Financial Literacy Segment, featuring Mr. Siddharth Rawal, Chief Operating Officer and Board Member at Saxo Bank Securities Ltd., who shared insights on “The Art and Science of Investing”. His session offered valuable guidance for those interested in smart investing in Japan, adding a practical and engaging dimension to the Bonenkai.
Beyond the informative session, the evening was filled with laughter, music, and delicious cuisine, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for conversations and new friendships to flourish. Guests shared stories, exchanged ideas, and celebrated the growing bond between India and Japan, making it a truly memorable experience.
When Connect India Japan brought The Rising Sun Conclave to Mumbai for the first time on 19th November 2025 at the ICONIQA Hotel, the city responded with its trademark vibrance.
The day began with a graceful Ganesh Vandana, followed by an inspiring keynote from Shri Rahul Narwekar, Hon’ble Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, who highlighted how Mumbai, Thane, and Pune are emerging as India’s strongest magnets for Japanese investment, innovation, and cultural exchange.
The conversations that followed moved far beyond diplomacy. The opening dialogue featured Mr. Partha Sinha, Senior Advisor, Consumer Practice, McKinsey & Company and Former President, The Times of India Group, alongside Mr. Jay Krishnan, Partner and Head of Investments, Beyond Next Ventures India, and Mr. Rabindra Sah, CTO, Indian Register of Shipping, exploring how innovation, strategic capital, and cross-border technology are shaping the next decade of Indo–Japan growth.
Corporate presentations by Mr. Shuhei Ito, General Manager, All Nippon Airways (Mumbai) and Mr. Rio Iwasawa, Representative Director, NTT DATA Payment Services India, demonstrated how aviation and digital payments are rapidly strengthening bilateral connectivity.
A dynamic second segment brought in Mr. Shuhei Ito, Mr. Rio Iwasawa and Mr. Shogo Kimura, Japan’s first IPL cricket contender and former Nippon Professional Baseball star, who shared how sports, digital ecosystems, and cultural insight are becoming unexpected yet powerful bridges between the two nations.
The afternoon’s standout conversation featured Shri Mangesh Chivate, Special Officer, Chief Minister’s Medical Relief Fund, in dialogue with Mr. Tomio Isogai, former Managing Director and champion of India–Japan relations, emphasizing leadership rooted in empathy and responsibility. The reflective finale with Mr. Om Raut, National Award-winning filmmaker, reminded everyone of cinema’s ability to build emotional bridges where policy cannot.
Supported by partners ESSEM, Panini Technolabs, and Vedika Group, The Rising Sun, Mumbai 2025 emerged as a deeply human, forward-thinking platform — one that strengthened trust, sparked genuine connections, and set the tone for a stronger India–Japan future.
Connect India Japan, in collaboration with Banaras Hindu University, hosted EDUCON 2025, a landmark three-day India–Japan Education Conclave held from 14–16 November at the Malviya Moolya Anusheelan Kendra, BHU. The conclave united leading scholars, researchers, policymakers, and global education experts, emerging as a transformative platform advancing the India–Japan knowledge partnership.
Day 1 opened with an inspiring inaugural ceremony led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, who emphasized EDUCON’s role in strengthening the flow of ideas, technology, and culture. Drawing from his experiences in Japan and the historic Kashi–Kyoto connection, he highlighted lessons India can learn from Japan’s blend of tradition and modernity. A special video message from Ambassador Sanjay Kumar Verma underscored the three pillars shaping India–Japan relations: Policy Continuity, Partnership Maturity, and People Pathways. Sessions on STEAM innovation, fellowships, and multidisciplinary learning set the tone for the conclave.
Day 2 brought a deeper dive into science diplomacy, geopolitics, and global education standards. Discussions on “Science, Geopolitics, and the Future of Policy Making” and “Education Excellence: Internationalization, Global Standards, and Strategic Cooperation” highlighted the need for universities to embrace research partnerships, capacity building, and international exposure.
Day 3 featured Major General (Dr.) Gagan Deep Bakshi, SM, VSM as Chief Guest, delivering a powerful address on leadership, national character, and global responsibility. Dialogues on cultural synergy and youth empowerment emphasized how both nations can prepare future-ready youth.
Distinguished speakers included Group Captain (Dr.) Ajey Lele (Retd.), Prof. Jagdev Singh, Prof. N.V. Varghese, Prof. Kazuyuki Furuuchi, Prof. Nishant Singh, Prof. Shrawan Kumar Mishra, Dr. K. Alkendra Pratap Singh, Prof. Astha Chadha, and others.
EDUCON 2025 stood as a defining step toward deeper internationalization and collaborative research — reaffirming education as the strongest bridge between India and Japan.
Tokyo Cup 2 returned with greater impact, transforming from a golf tournament into a powerful Indo–Japan business and cultural milestone. Hosted at the ITC Classic Golf & Country Club, Gurugram, the event brought together leaders from industry, investment, and corporate India–Japan networks. More than a competition, it showcased how sport can advance diplomacy, spark meaningful business conversations, and strengthen cultural ties.
Curated and conceptualized by Connect India Japan, with Krisumi Corporation as Title Sponsor and HSIIDC as Strategic Partner, the tournament set a new standard for corporate engagement. Indiabulls, as the Golf Course Partner, elevated the experience with impeccable execution. From a warm welcome breakfast to relaxed on-course networking and a dynamic lunch gathering, every touchpoint was intentionally designed to foster genuine dialogue beyond formal settings.
Tokyo Cup 2 attracted influential corporate participants including Trehan Iris, MCPI, UNO Minda, Eldeco, AKS, and Technico Industries Ltd, adding significant prestige and industry depth. Their presence reaffirmed Tokyo Cup’s growing reputation as a serious business platform framed through the simplicity of sport.
Aligned perfectly with Haryana’s rising Japan-linked industrial momentum, the event highlighted the expanding Japanese business ecosystem across Manesar and Gurugram, strengthened through HSIIDC’s strategic support.
The day’s most memorable element was the natural camaraderie on the greens—Indian and Japanese players exchanging stories, ideas, and genuine laughs. The closing ceremony, featuring well-deserved awards and recognitions, celebrated not just sporting excellence but the spirit of collaboration that defined the event.
Tokyo Cup 2 ultimately reinforced a powerful truth: when people meet as humans first, partnerships grow effortlessly. With future editions in sight, Connect India Japan remains committed to building meaningful, forward-looking bridges between the two nations.
On 24 September 2025, Connect India Japan created history in Tokyo by hosting the first-ever Ms. India Japan Pageant, a landmark cultural event uniting India and Japan through elegance, heritage, and global vision. The evening was graced by Mrs. Akie Abe, Former First Lady of Japan, who shared moving reflections on the deep connection her late husband, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, shared with India. She also praised Ms. Nupur Tewari, founder of Connect India Japan, warmly acknowledging her as “the real Ms. India Japan.”
The event opened with a classical Indian dance performance by Ms. Atsuko Maeda, setting the tone for a culturally rich evening. Inspiring keynote addresses were delivered by Shri R. Madhu Sudan, Chargé d’Affaires, Indian Embassy Tokyo, and Mr. Kazuya Nakajo, Executive Advisor, JETRO, highlighting the importance of cultural diplomacy and people-to-people ties.
A distinguished jury panel added global depth to the pageant: Dr. Tomohiko Taniguchi, Special Advisor to Late PM Shinzo Abe; Mr. Kazuya Nakajo, Executive Advisor, JETRO, Mr. James Angelus, President, International Security Industry Council, Japan, Prof. Rajib Shaw, Professor in Keio University and Ms. Luma Naomi, Miss Grand Japan 2024
The twenty finalists presented three themed walks—Japanese kimono, Indian saree, and evening gowns—symbolizing unity in diversity. The evening featured soulful music by Ms. Gayatri and Mr. Sanket, a Japanese song by Ms. Kaede Kato, and a special Gyokuro Cha presentation.
Ms. Chiharu Sakamoto was crowned the first-ever Ms. India Japan 2025, with Ms. Shelley Singh as First Runner-Up. As Connect India Japan’s first official ambassador, she will champion culture, entrepreneurship, trade, and SME collaboration across Japan.
Connect India Japan extends heartfelt gratitude to Kagoshima Prefecture as a proud partner of this pioneering event., all speakers, performers and jury members for making this historic milestone unforgettable.
On June 4, 2025, Connect India Japan hosted the landmark Rising India, i.e. Bharat conclave in Tokyo at the iconic Akasaka Prince Hotel, with support from the Indian Embassy in Japan and the Japan-India Association. Curated and led by Ms. Nupur Tewari, this historic woman-led event marked the first large-scale India-focused gathering of its kind in Japan.
The keynote session featured distinguished speakers: Ambassador H.E. Mr. Sibi George, who addressed India’s firm stand against terrorism; Mr. Kono Taro, former Foreign Minister of Japan, who praised India’s rise as the world’s fourth-largest economy; and Dr. Tomohiko Taniguchi, former Special Advisor to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who paid tribute to Abe-san’s enduring vision of Indo-Japanese friendship.
The diplomacy panel brought together Ambassador Hiroshi Hirabayashi and Ambassador Hideaki Domichi, both former envoys to India, for a rich dialogue on the evolution of bilateral ties.
In the business session, top industry leaders—Mr. Kazuya Nakajo (JETRO), Mr. Tsubasa Shiraishi (Rakuten), Mr. Kinji Saito (Suzuki Motor Corporation), and Mr. Satoshi Iwaki (Nikkei)—discussed innovation, investment, and cross-border collaboration.
The conclave concluded with an Indo-Japanese cultural dinner, celebrating shared values and future possibilities.
