'Rising India, i.e., Bharat' : India-Japan Conclave in Tokyo 2025, To Strengthen Strategic and Cultural Partnership

As the countdown begins for Rising India, i.e., Bharat – New World of India-Japan, set to take place on June 4, 2025, in Tokyo, we spoke with Nupur Tewari, founder of Connect India Japan. She shares her insights on the upcoming conclave, the mission behind the initiative, and the future of India-Japan relations.

Nupur Tewari, founder of Connect India Japan

What inspired the idea behind “Rising India, i.e., Bharat”?

Rising India, i.e., Bharat was born from a deep desire to showcase the evolving story of India - Bharat as a dynamic force in the global arena. It’s not just about celebrating India’s rise, but about bridging cultures and creating new pathways for collaboration between India and Japan. This platform brings together leaders, entrepreneurs, cultural figures, and educators who believe in the power of partnerships to drive transformation.

What are some of the key themes of the event this year?

We’ve built the event around four core pillars:

Bilateral Innovation– focusing on co-creation in areas like tech, renewable energy, healthcare, and digital transformation.

Cultural Exchange– a celebration of Indian and Japanese heritage through performance and artistry.

Educational & Creative Collaboration– connecting institutions and youth across education, animation, and entertainment.

Business & Investment Dialogue– engaging SMEs, investors, and thought leaders to create new economic opportunities.

These themes reflect where India and Japan can grow together not just economically, but culturally and spiritually as well.

Who are some of the notable names participating in the conclave?

Stellar lineup of distinguished guests includes Sibi George, Ambassador of India to Japan; Kono Taro, Former Minister of Japan; Dr. Tomohiko Taniguchi, Special advisor to the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe; Ambassador Hiroshi Hirabayashi, Vice Chairman of the Japan-India Association ; Mr. Kazuya Nakajo, Ex. VP JETRO; Ambassador Hideaki Domichi, Former Ambassador of Japan to India. Their participation highlights the strategic importance of the India-Japan partnership and the spirit of mutual respect that underpins it.

What role do cultural performances play in the event’s format?

Culture is central to connection. We open with a soulful Bharatanatyam performance by  Saiko Yamamoto, who has long served as a cultural bridge through classical Indian dance. We close with a captivating Japanese contemporary dance by Fujima Soyoka. These performances represent a dialogue beyond words one of shared emotion and expression.

Can you share more about the support behind this initiative?

We are incredibly grateful for the support and cooperation of the Embassy of India in Tokyo and The Japan-India Association. Their leadership in promoting India-Japan ties diplomatically, culturally, and economically has been instrumental. We are also backed by visionary sponsors who believe in building purposeful Indo-Japan bridges. They’re not just sponsors, they are co-creators of this meaningful engagement.

Finally, what is the long-term goal for Connect India Japan through initiatives like this?

Our mission is to connect minds, markets, and cultures. Through Connect India Japan, we are creating a sustainable platform for business growth, educational innovation, and cultural diplomacy. Our ultimate goal is to shape a shared future of prosperity and mutual understanding between India and Japan.