Japanese Creator Embraces India: Hindi, Sarees & Aloo Parathas!

Japanese content creator Mayo Murasaki, popularly known as Mayo Japan, has found a second home in Mumbai, India. She moved to the city a year ago and is living with a local family, which has deepened her understanding of Indian traditions. Murasaki, who speaks fluent Hindi and wears sarees, shared her experiences at NDTV's Indo-Japan Strategic Dialogue.

Murasaki noted the significant cultural difference in the warmth and friendliness of Indians compared to Japanese people. She emphasized how quickly Indians form connections and extend invitations to their homes for meals, a gesture she cherishes. Her journey into Indian culture began in her childhood, sparked by her father, a Himalayan mountaineer.

She finds explaining India's vast diversity to her home country a challenge, noting the distinctiveness of different regions. Murasaki advises Japanese travelers to explore multiple destinations, try various cuisines, and most importantly, connect with local people to truly grasp the spirit of 'Atithi Devo Bhava.'

Her affection for India extends to Bollywood, with Ranveer Singh being her favorite actor. Murasaki also pointed out similarities between Indian and Japanese cultures, particularly in core values. She highlighted 'jugaad,' making friends, and dancing as three aspects where India excels compared to Japan.