Traditional Shamisen artist from Japan teamed up with an Indian tabla player to roll out the Japanese pavillion at the 33rd India International Trade Fair (IITF) here today.
Japan, a partner country at the IITF is showcasing different aspects of being a "cool nation" not just as a technology leader but also a pioneer in art, design and fashion, craft and cusine among others.
The official country partner's pavilion witnessed a 15 minute long blending of music by tabla artist Ustad Amjad Khan and Hiromitsu Agatsuma, a Shamisen artist from Japan. Shamisen, is a three stringed Japanese lute.
"I had composed a different raga for the concert. This platform gave me a better opportunity to showcase this art form," said Agatsuma.
Meanwhile, Amjad Khan said he was "totally happy to perform on a day when Japan is celebrating Japan's Day."
"Music has no boundaries, I have been performing for the past 15 years here and abroad. But, this is very special for me to share the platform with a country and its artists who are celebrating Japan's Day today. The Japanese artists are very humble and go beyond the limitations to entertain the audience", said Khan.
Dempagumi.Inc, a six-member girl music band staged a couple of peppy numbers in traditional Japanese 'Akiba' style.
The band is also in India as part of their global tour that has taken them to US, France, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Taipei.
Volunteers dressed in costumes of Japan's anime characters Shin-Chan and Doraemon to draw crowds to the anime section of the pavillion.
Visitors can also sample authentic Japanese tea especially Ocha, the country's green tea. A special Japanese tearoom "Tatami House" - a tiny house just large enough for four people has been erected at the Pavillion.
The pavilion was inaugurated by Union Cabinet Minister in charge of Commerce and Industry and Textiles Anand Sharma.
"Japan has always been a dependable and viable country. We are delighted to have Japan as our partner country. This would be a biggest draw especially in sharing art culture and tradition," said India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) Chairperson and Managing Director, Rita Menon.
