Japanese Performing Arts, Hana-Zakura (Cherry Blossoms), part of the Min-On Concert Association visited India from 10-15th December 2017 for performances in New Delhi and Mumbai. The visit was being organized under the aegis of ‘2017 – The Year of Japan-India Friendly Exchanges’ to further enhance people-to-people exchanges between Japan and India. 2017 marks the 60th anniversary of the India Japan Culture Treaty.
The group enthralled the audience with a spectacular performance which was held at Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi on 12th December 2017. The performance included Japanese traditional dance by a group called “Wakatake”. The dancers displayed skillful moves and coordination which left the audiences spellbound.
Renounced musicians from Japan who entertained the viewers included Mr. Koushi Tsukuda, Shakuhachi player (Japanese flute), Ms. Komakazumi Minami, Narimono player (Japanese Percussion), Mr. Katsunari Sawada, Tsugaru Shamisen player (Traditional Japanese music) and Ms. Chiaki Eshima, Singer.Around 1900 members which included more than 250 guests were in attendance.
One of the guests remarked that “This was my first experience of Japanese music and dance. I will never forget the heartwarming performance. I really want to visit Japan” Another remarked “I will never forget this performance which has built a bond in our hearts”
The group further traveled to Mumbai for performances in St. Xavier’s Auditorium on 13th December 2017. The performance in St. Xavier’s Auditorium was truly a cultural exchange with St. Xavier’s displaying their talent with traditional Indian dance and songs highlighting fusion of tradition and contemporary music. The Min-on group also responded with an energetic performance which left the students asking for more.
Around 300 members which included more than 150 students from St. Xavier’s college were in attendance.
The group then moved to their final performance of the tour in Tata Theater, NCPA. The powerful performance was cheered at every step by an energetic audience who truly felt the heart of each performer.
Renowned Indian contemporary dancer and choreographer and Padma Shri awardee, Astad Deboo, who was among the audience, called it a brilliant performance which he truly admired. Bishwadeep Chatterjee, one of India’s most renowned sound designers and a National award winner also shared how he was truly mesmerized by the performance.
The members of BSG who were in attendance truly felt the power of culture and its role in establishing peace and deepened their understanding of SGI President Ikeda’s greatness in founding the Min-on Concert Association.
All the performances also comprised of a workshop which gave the audience a unique chance to try their hand at traditional Japanese dance.