Tokyo – On February 19th, the Nepali community in Japan gathered in the heart of Tokyo to celebrate National Democracy Day with a special cultural festival. Organized by the Nepali Embassy, the event took place as part of the Nepal-Japan Cultural Festival, marking an important occasion for both nations. The celebration kicked off with an inspiring performance of the national anthems of Nepal and Japan, beautifully sung by a group of Japanese artists, symbolizing the unity between the two countries.
Dr. Durga Bahadur Subedi, the Ambassador of Nepal to Japan, addressed the audience with a heartfelt message. He expressed his excitement about celebrating National Democracy Day alongside the Nepal-Japan Cultural Festival, noting the significance of the upcoming 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan next year. Dr. Subedi also honored the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Nepal’s democracy, extending a deep tribute to their bravery. He conveyed his warm greetings and best wishes to both Nepali and Japanese friends in attendance, marking the day as a celebration of mutual respect and cultural exchange.
The event was marked by an enthusiastic turnout from both the Nepali and Japanese communities, with numerous cultural and musical performances reflecting the rich diversity of both nations. Among the standout acts was the performance of renowned Nepali singer Anand Karki, who is currently in Japan for a musical tour. His special performance captivated the audience and added to the festive atmosphere.
Held at the Meguro Kumin Center, the event was praised for its well-planned structure, which aimed to minimize time spent on speeches and maximize engagement with the audience. This efficient approach allowed for more cultural performances and a better flow of the program. The coordination between Nepali and Japanese performers was smooth, with both groups sharing their respective traditions and artistic expressions in a collaborative manner that left a lasting impression on the audience.
The embassy’s initiative to host a joint celebration, with both Nepali and Japanese participation, was seen as a step towards strengthening the cultural ties between the two countries at the community level. The message was clear: fostering joint activities between the two nations would help expand diplomatic relations beyond the government level, promoting collaboration and understanding among the citizens of both countries.
The event was hosted by Yashoda Basnet Thapa, who kept the celebration lively and engaging throughout the evening. Overall, the National Democracy Day celebration in Tokyo not only marked an important day in Nepal’s history but also showcased the growing cultural and diplomatic bond between Nepal and Japan, leaving the attendees with a sense of pride and optimism for the future.
