Traditional Japanese Dance Bon Odori (盆踊り) to Make Everyone Dance at Konnichiwa Japan Fest 2024
Experience the rhythm of Japan as Delhi's Konnichiwa Japan Fest invites everyone to join in the vibrant Bon Odori dance to the music of Japanese drum performance, led by Taiko expert Ms. Satomi Konno.
NEW DELHI: The 8th edition of the annual Konnichiwa Japan Fest 2024 will feature a special performance of “Bon Odori (盆踊り),” a traditional Japanese dance usually performed at summer festivals across Japan by large groups in the community. The event, taking place at DLF Avenue Saket on November 23-24, will see thousands of spectators, artists, volunteers, and organizers joining together to dance to traditional Japanese music and the rhythmic beats of taiko drums.
A highlight of this year’s festival is the renowned taiko expert Ms. Satomi Konno, who has been performing since the inaugural Konnichiwa Japan Fest in 2017 and will return to the stage this year as well.
Organized by the World Heritage Academy (WHA) in collaboration with the Konnichiwa Japan Club and title sponsor Asahi Japanese Destination Management Company, the festival promises to captivate Indian audiences with authentic Japanese delicacies, vibrant performances, including mock Sumo wrestling, and engaging cultural talks.
According to Mr. Markus, Founder & Chairman of the Konnichiwa Japan Club, this will be the first time Bon Odori is featured at the festival, making it one of the star attractions. “We invite everyone present to join in dancing together in traditional Japanese style to the beat of taiko drums,” he shared.
He added that it’s especially exciting to welcome Ms. Satomi Konno back to perform. She participated in the first festival in 2017, and in 2023 performed alongside six of her team members, delivering a powerful performance. Recently, she has been conducting taiko workshops for students studying Japanese at the International School of Gurgaon and the Japan Foundation in New Delhi.
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance performed during the Obon Festival, a Buddhist event in mid-August (or mid-July in some areas) that honors ancestral spirits. Danced in a circle around a central platform, Bon Odori features simple, repetitive movements accompanied by taiko drums and flutes. Participants often wear yukata, enhancing the festive and communal atmosphere. Each region in Japan has its own styles and songs for Bon Odori, reflecting local culture and history. The festival has gained international popularity, promoting cross-cultural celebration and appreciation.
Mr. Markus expressed his excitement for this year’s event, noting that Konnichiwa Japan serves as a bridge to foster personal connections between the people of India and Japan. “Each year, we bring new talent directly from Japan to India, and we believe that fostering cultural understanding is key to strengthening business and political ties. As we celebrate the festival’s eighth year, we are proud of its role in bringing our two nations closer together.”
The event has received significant support and recognition, with the Embassy of Japan recently awarding the Foreign Minister’s Commendation 2023 to the Konnichiwa Japan Club President for their dedication to fostering cultural ties between the two countries. This year, WHA brings an impressive group of Japanese cultural ambassadors to share their expertise, offering visitors a rich, authentic experience of Japan’s traditions and contemporary artistry.
Related article: Two Sumo Stars Yoshinori Tashiro & Ryusuke Soma to perform in Konnichiwa Japan Festival 2024
A number of brands have come on board to support this year’s celebration, including DLF as the Venue Partner, Asahi, Sony PlayStation as the Gaming Partner, and All Nippon Airways (ANA) as the Airline Partner. Other notable partners include Naris Cosmetics Co., Chiran Tea, and dining establishments like Asago, Ebisu, and Dia Park. Aju Hotel will provide accommodations, while Nissan and Isuzu join as automotive partners, with ACN Network as the Communication Partner.
Since its establishment in 2012, the World Heritage Academy has been dedicated to nurturing India-Japan relations through meaningful initiatives, with Konnichiwa Japan now a hallmark event in this effort. By creating immersive and enjoyable cultural experiences, WHA aims to foster a lasting appreciation of Japanese culture in India.
Mark your calendars for Konnichiwa Japan 2024 on November 23 and 24 at DLF Avenue, Saket. This free-entry event promises to transport visitors into the heart of Japanese culture through an unforgettable blend of tradition, art, and entertainment.
