Overview
- Japan’s envoy to India, ONO Keiichi, posted video and photos showing he took a full dip in the Ganga in Rishikesh three times over the Janmashtami weekend.
- ONO described the experience as one of “awe, humility, and gratitude” and called it “truly unforgettable” in his X post.
- The footage shows him entering the river while holding a chain, a selfie taken in the water, and a picture of his participation in the Ganga aarti.
- Indian social media users and news outlets reacted warmly, offering welcome messages and local tips that increased the ambassador’s popularity online.
- The visit builds on earlier posts of ONO embracing Indian food and customs and illustrates a steady use of personal social posts as soft‑power diplomacy rather than a change in formal policy.