Japanese content creator Mayo Murasaki said at NDTV's Indo-Japan Strategic Dialogue about her experiences living in India and learning the Hindi language [1, 2].
Her appearance highlights the growing role of social media influencers in fostering grassroots diplomacy and cultural exchange between Tokyo and New Delhi. By sharing her personal transition from Japan to Mumbai, Murasaki illustrates how individual narratives can humanize strategic bilateral relations.
Murasaki, known online as Mayo Japan, detailed her affinity for Indian culture and the specific reasons why Mumbai feels like home to her [1, 2]. She said the challenges and rewards of learning Hindi and the cultural differences she encountered while navigating life in India [1, 2].
During the event, Murasaki also performed a dance to the song "Naatu Naatu," a performance that has previously gone viral [1, 2]. The display of Bollywood influence served as a practical example of her immersion into the local arts and entertainment scene.
Arun Singh of NDTV said Murasaki is "a cultural bridge between India and Japan" [1]. He said her enthusiasm for the language and customs helps create a more relatable connection between the two nations [1].
Murasaki's journey focuses on bridging the gap between the two countries through digital storytelling and linguistic study [1, 2]. She used the platform to explain how her love for Bollywood, and the vibrancy of Mumbai, drove her to integrate into Indian society [1, 2].
“a cultural bridge between India and Japan”
The use of a digital creator at a strategic dialogue suggests a shift in how nations approach soft power. By leveraging viral content and personal stories of integration, the Indo-Japan relationship is expanding beyond formal government agreements into the realm of public perception and cultural affinity.
