Japanese tourists visiting Odisha embraced the colorful celebration of Holi in the city of Puri, sharing their joyful experiences of participating in the festival.
Speaking to media, one of the Japanese tourists remarked, “It’s a very nice and beautiful festival. The Holi festival is also famous in Japan.”
#WATCH | Puri, Odisha | A Japanese tourist says, "… Holi is a beautiful festival. Odisha is very popular in Japan…" pic.twitter.com/tSkKK4bwZp
— ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2025
Japanese tourists flocked to Puri to experience the festival, taking part in the vibrant traditions and festivities. Srimanta Kumar Dash, president of the India-Japan Friendship Centre in Puri, highlighted that the Holi festival has been celebrated in the region for over twenty years, noting its role in promoting Indian culture and attracting tourists to Puri, home to the famous Jagannath Dham.
He added, “This promotes our culture and increases the number of tourists coming to Puri, Jagannath Dham.” Dash further mentioned that he shared the significance of Holi with the tourists, explaining its cultural importance, and expressed that the tourists were delighted to learn about the festival’s customs and traditions. “Now they know about the festival, why it is celebrated, what is done during the festival, and they are very happy to celebrate Holi. Thus, this helps us promote our culture as well as tourism.”
Earlier on Friday, Japanese Ambassador to India and Bhutan, ONO Keiichi, conveyed Holi greetings via X, sharing a heartfelt message: “Holi Hai! We celebrated the festival of colours at the Embassy of Japan in India, embracing joy, unity, and friendship. Wishing everyone a Happy Holi!” His post emphasized the festival’s universal appeal and its role in fostering international bonds.
#WATCH | Puri, Odisha | President of India-Japan Friendship Centre in Puri, Srimanta Kumar Dash, celebrates Holi with Japanese tourists. pic.twitter.com/PfbEaFR6hC
— ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2025
Foreign tourists in Mumbai and Jaipur also joined locals in the festivities, marking their first experience of the festival of colors. At Marine Drive in Mumbai, a tourist from London shared her excitement: “I came here for some work, but I also got to enjoy Holi for the first time. It is a great experience, and everyone is really welcoming.” Many tourists, initially in India for business or travel, were thrilled to witness the colorful celebrations firsthand.
The energy, inclusivity, and warmth of Holi left a lasting impression on visitors, who appreciated the hospitality and spirit of togetherness. As one of India’s major festivals, Holi is celebrated across the country and is globally known for its joyous display of colors.
Holi, which marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring, is celebrated under various names in different regions of India, such as Dhulendi, Lathmaar Holi, Mohhalla Hola, Basant Utsav, and Rangpanchami. The festival is also a time for farmers to worship and pray for a good harvest.