Introduction

The staff of the Japanese Embassy in India offered a vocal and instrumental performance of the Indian National Anthem on the momentous occasion of India celebrating 75 glorious years of independence.

The Japanese and Indian staff members of the Embassy joyfully sang the Indian National Anthem “Jana Gana Mana” on the Japanese Embassy grounds in New Delhi while wearing traditional Indian clothing, tricolor dupattas, and hoisting the Indian National Flag high.

The Embassy staff members stood before the symbolic Peepal tree, which in itself is a representation of Japan-India friendship. The grand Peepal tree, which is believed to be sacred in many Indian traditions, was planted by Their Majesties the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Emerita of Japan during their visit to India in 1960.

This is a historic year because of two major events:

India celebrated its 75th anniversary of Independence. At the same time, this year also marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and India.