In a first, India’s culinary experts appointed as Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassadors

As part of their role, the duo will provide expert advice to Japanese cuisine professionals overseas, further strengthening the cultural and gastronomic ties between Japan and India.

Sanjeev K Ahuja On Feb 18, 2025

New Delhi, India – In a historic milestone for culinary diplomacy, Ms. Nooresha Kably and Brehadeesh Kumar have been appointed as Goodwill Ambassadors for the Promotion of Japanese Cuisine by the Japan government.

The Goodwill Ambassador initiative aims to preserve, promote, and share the rich heritage of Japanese cuisine and food culture globally. As part of their role, Kably and Kumar will provide expert advice to Japanese cuisine professionals overseas, further strengthening the cultural and gastronomic ties between Japan and India.

To mark this historic achievement, a special ceremony will be hosted at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador in New Delhi on February 24, 2025 (Monday). This prestigious recognition, announced in December 2024 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan, marks the first time that Indians based in India have been honored with this title.

Previously in December 2022, the MAFF had designated Harry KOSATO Hakuei – as “Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador” for India. He was the first Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador appointed in December 2022 by the Japanese Government – as India Representative of Kikkoman and Founder of Sushi and More India, he has actively been involved in the import marketing promotion of Made in Japan products for the Indian market, representing brands as diverse as Kikkoman, Ito-en, Karakida premium soba noodles, Ishimaru premium ramen and udon, Fuji Bussan premium grilled kabayaki eel, Kunitaro matcha green, rooibos, and barley mugicha teas, and assisting companies like Ooi Yamamoto Shoten, a 400 year seafood confectionary and snacks wholeseller from Japan.

Both Nooresha Kably and Brehadeesh Kumar have been at the forefront of introducing and popularizing Japanese cuisine in India. Their expertise, dedication, and contributions to the industry have earned them this esteemed recognition, highlighting India’s growing appreciation and influence in the world of Japanese gastronomy.

With this appointment, Japan reaffirms its commitment to fostering cross-cultural culinary exchanges and enhancing the global appeal of washoku, Japan’s traditional cuisine.

Nooresha Kably – A Trailblazer in Japanese Culinary Arts: A seasoned Japanese cuisine chef, educator, and consultant, Nooresha Kably has played a significant role in popularizing authentic Japanese flavors in India. As the founder of a leading culinary institute specializing in Japanese cuisine, she has trained numerous professionals in the art of sushi-making, ramen, and traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

Kably’s passion for washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) has earned her recognition as a trusted expert in India’s growing Japanese food scene.

Her commitment to culinary education and promotion of Japanese gastronomy aligns perfectly with her new role as a Goodwill Ambassador, where she will continue to advocate for authentic Japanese dining experiences in India and beyond.

Brehadeesh Kumar – Bridging Cultures Through Japanese Gastronomy: A distinguished Japanese cuisine specialist and sake connoisseur, Brehadeesh Kumar has been a strong advocate for the integration of Japanese flavors into India’s diverse culinary landscape.

His deep knowledge of Japanese fermentation techniques, umami science, and sake appreciation has made him a key figure in the Indian food and beverage industry.

With extensive experience in Japanese culinary research and restaurant consulting, Kumar has actively contributed to training chefs and restaurateurs in mastering Japanese cooking techniques. As an expert in sake pairing and appreciation, he will play a vital role in enhancing India’s understanding of Japan’s rich sake culture.

Celebration of Their Appointment: To mark this historic achievement, a special ceremony will be hosted at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador on February 24, 2025 (Monday). The event will bring together government officials, hospitality industry leaders, restaurant professionals, influencers, and other distinguished guests to celebrate the appointment of Kably and Kumar.

The program will commence with opening remarks by the Ambassador, followed by the official appointment ceremony of Kably and Kumar. They will then deliver keynote addresses on their journey and commitment to promoting Japanese cuisine. Additionally, sake expert Ms. Eoka Eiko will conduct a special seminar to commemorate the inclusion of sake in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in December 2024.

The event will conclude with a sake toast, a standing reception, and a networking session, offering a platform for industry professionals to engage and celebrate this landmark achievement.