Keen to strengthen ties, Tokyo says Namaste India

TOKYO: Showcasing Indian heritage and traditions a two-day cultural extravaganza, Namaste India, will begin on Saturday in a bid to strengthen Indo-Japan ties.

Representing the vivid spectrum of Indian states and cultures would be a myriad of performances, including those from India's most popular entertainment export Bollywood.

Alongside these performances would be a host of stalls showcasing a variety of colourful handicrafts from across India. A special attraction would be the Mehndi and Bindi stalls.

Touted the world over as the biggest Indian export, Yoga would form a major part of the programme.

Organised jointly by the Indian Embassy in Japan, Ministry of Tourism and the India Centre in Tokyo, the event would also include separate business and handicrafts exhibitions.

"The main aim of Namaste India is to enhance awareness about India by showcasing its best in society and economy.

With greater awareness will come greater interaction and exchange, between India and Japan, leading to a comprehensive India-Japan Global Partnership," officials said.