India (Commonwealth Union)_ In a groundbreaking development for culinary diplomacy, the Japanese government has appointed Indian chefs Nooresha Kably and Brehadeesh Kumar as Goodwill Ambassadors for the Promotion of Japanese Cuisine. This momentous occasion marks the first time that Indian nationals have received this prestigious honor, cementing their role as ambassadors of Japan’s rich culinary traditions on the global stage. Accordingly, Kably and Kumar’s appointment reflects the growing prominence of India’s food culture and the deeper connections between the two countries’ culinary worlds. A formal ceremony to celebrate this achievement is scheduled for February 24, 2025, at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador in New Delhi.
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The event will be attended by a diverse array of dignitaries, including government officials, hospitality industry leaders, restaurant professionals, and culinary influencers, all gathered to honor Kably and Kumar’s exceptional contributions to the promotion of Japanese cuisine. The announcement, made by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF), acknowledges the chefs’ significant efforts in introducing and preserving Japanese culinary practices in India. Their new roles as cultural and gastronomic bridges between India and Japan will involve advising Japanese cuisine professionals worldwide, as well as enhancing global appreciation for washoku, Japan’s traditional culinary heritage.
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The Goodwill Ambassador program, a key initiative of MAFF, aims to expand the global footprint of Japanese cuisine. India, which has witnessed a surge in the popularity of Japanese food in recent years, plays an increasingly important role in shaping international perceptions of washoku. This appointment follows the recognition of other culinary figures in the past. In December 2022, Harry Kosato Hakuei, India Representative of Kikkoman and Founder of Sushi and More India, was named a Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador for his efforts to promote Japanese food products in India. Kably and Kumar now join this distinguished list of culinary experts who have been honored for their work in spreading the appreciation of Japanese food globally.
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Nooresha Kably: Championing authentic Japanese cuisine in India
Nooresha Kably is a renowned chef, educator, and consultant who has dedicated much of her career to popularizing authentic Japanese flavors in India. As the founder of a leading culinary institute specializing in Japanese cuisine, Kably has trained countless professionals in sushi-making, ramen, and other traditional Japanese cooking techniques. Her expertise and passion for washoku have made her a highly respected figure in India’s burgeoning Japanese food scene. As a Goodwill Ambassador, Kably is eager to deepen the understanding of Japanese cuisine, promoting authentic dining experiences and fostering greater cultural exchange between India and Japan.
Brehadeesh Kumar: Sake and Japanese cuisine advocate
Brehadeesh Kumar is an expert in Japanese cuisine and a renowned sake connoisseur. He has played a pivotal role in introducing Japanese flavors to India’s diverse culinary landscape. With a focus on Japanese fermentation techniques, umami science, and sake appreciation, Kumar has become a key influencer in the Indian food and beverage industry. Kumar’s extensive work in culinary research, restaurant consulting, and sake education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the Indian Japanese food movement. He is poised to use his new role as a Goodwill Ambassador to enhance India’s understanding of sake (Japanese rice wine), especially following its inclusion on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in December 2024.
Honouring culinary diplomacy
The official ceremony will feature a special seminar led by sake expert Eoka Eiko, celebrating the inclusion of sake in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The event will conclude with a sake toast, followed by a standing reception and networking session, allowing industry professionals to celebrate this historic achievement and discuss the future of Japanese cuisine in India and beyond. The appointment of Nooresha Kably and Brehadeesh Kumar as Goodwill Ambassadors is a significant step in strengthening the culinary ties between India and Japan, paving the way for deeper cultural exchange through the universal language of food.
