In the latest example of cultural diplomacy, PM Modi shared a video by the Japanese Ambassador trying out Indian cuisine
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently shared a video on Twitter, showcasing Japanese Ambassador to India Hiroshi Suzuki and his wife delighting in Indian cuisine. The video posted by Ambassador Suzuki captures the couple's light-hearted spirit as they engage in a friendly competition while sampling various Indian dishes. The video highlights the couple's enthusiasm for exploring India's rich culinary heritage and serves as an example of cultural diplomacy, fostering connections between the two nations.

In the video, posted on Twitter on June 10, 2023, Ambassador Suzuki and his wife can be seen trying different dishes, with Suzuki humorously exclaiming, "My wife beat me!" "My wife beat me!" after she requests for the “hot spicy!!" kind. The video not only showcases the couple's enjoyment of Indian cuisine but also highlights the diverse flavors and textures that make Indian food unique and appealing to a global audience.

In response to the video, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, "This is one contest you may not mind losing, Mr. Ambassador. Good to see you enjoying India’s culinary diversity and also presenting it in such an innovative manner. Keep the videos coming!".

This exchange comes on the heels of other instances of cultural diplomacy in India. On June 10, 2023, Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O’Farrell tweeted about meeting legendary Indian actor Rajinikanth and discussing the actor's upcoming film, Jailer.

These instances seem to be the latest in a trend that seems to be catching on fast.

The German Embassy in New Delhi recently joined the global celebration of the Oscar-winning song 'Naatu Naatu' from the Indian film RRR. German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann shared a video on social media on March 18, 2023 featuring embassy staff dancing to the popular song in a flash mob in Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk neighborhood. As a large crowd gathered to watch, Ambassador Ackermann added a caption that read, "Germans can't dance? Me and my Indo-German team celebrated #NaatuNaatu's victory at #Oscar95 in Old Delhi. Ok, far from perfect. But fun! Thanks Korean Embassy India for inspiring us. Congratulations & welcome back Ram Charan and the RRR movie team! #embassychallange is open. Who's next?"

Prime Minister Modi tweeted in response to the post from the German Ambassador and wrote, "The colours and flavours of India! Germans can surely dance and dance well!"

This display of cultural diplomacy came weeks after the South Korean Embassy in New Delhi also celebrated the catchy song by posting a video on social media. The video featured Korean Ambassador Chang Jae-bok and embassy staff dancing to "Naatu Naatu." Prime Minister Modi responded to the South Korean Embassy's video with praise, calling it a "lively and adorable team effort" and adding a thumbs-up emoticon.

These events highlight the growing importance of cultural diplomacy in India, with foreign diplomats engaging with Indian culture and traditions. As ambassadors and embassy staff participate in activities that showcase their appreciation for Indian cuisine, music, and cinema, they contribute to building bridges between their home countries and India.

Furthermore, by sharing their experiences with their home countries, diplomats can help dispel stereotypes and misconceptions about India, promoting a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the country and its people. As cultural diplomacy continues to gain prominence, it is essential for countries to recognize and embrace the power of cultural exchange in fostering global harmony and cooperation.