Japanese Ambassador Takes Holy Dip in Ganga at Rishikesh, Calls Experience Unforgettable

Japan’s Ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, recently shared his experience of taking a holy dip in the Ganga at Rishikesh. He described the moment as one filled with awe, humility and gratitude, calling it truly unforgettable.

The diplomat posted a video and photographs from his visit. In the footage, he is seen entering the river while holding a chain along the bank and immersing himself fully. He also shared a selfie taken near the river and an image of himself during an aarti ceremony.

Ono noted that he completed a full dip three times over the Janmashtami weekend. Surrounded by people observing long-standing faith and traditions, he said he felt a profound spiritual connection.

His post generated warm responses from many Indians. Commenters welcomed his engagement with the location and culture, with some offering light-hearted advice about the pull of the Ganga and Rishikesh, suggestions to try local tea or rafting, and appreciation for the number of immersions he undertook.

This was not the first occasion on which the ambassador has publicly embraced aspects of Indian culture. Earlier in the year, while in Delhi, he shared his experience of eating biryani with his hands and remarked that the dish tasted even better that way, drawing a comparison to sushi. On another occasion, he posted a photograph of himself enjoying Bihar’s traditional litti chokha, describing it as world-famous and adding a positive comment in Bhojpuri.

The ambassador’s participation in the ritual at Rishikesh reflects his continued interest in experiencing India’s cultural and spiritual practices during his tenure in the country.

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