Event at Ekya School Byrathi Encourages Cultural Interaction and Inspires Creativity within the Realm of Japan Festival
India & Japan Children's Mural Project Shines at the Japan Festival-Kala Kabe
A unique cultural collaboration was recently showcased at the Japan Festival-Kala Kabe in Bengaluru, India. The event, organised by Miho Sakata Malhan, Founder of Muse Creation, celebrated the cultures of India and Japan, art, tradition, and collaboration.
The centrepiece of the festival was the India & Japan Children's Mural Project, a joint initiative where children from India and Japan co-created mural art reflecting their dreams and friendship. This was the first mural in India by Teiko Nishimori, a renowned Japanese mural artist and Founder of ICFA Japan.
The India & Japan Children's Mural Project is part of ongoing cultural exchange initiatives fostering friendship and creativity between Indian and Japanese children through collaborative art. Nishimori leads the project under ICFA Japan, indicating a structured, artistic exchange program has been established.
The process involved engaging children in discussions, listening to their ideas, and working together to create murals. The children shared their dreams and aspirations—such as becoming police officers, pilots, scientists, and doctors—which became themes incorporated into the murals. The collaborative creation happened on walls that visually represent hopes and cultural connections developed during these workshops.
The festival included enriching activities such as performances, Origami and Haiku workshops, a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony, art displays by students, and a Muse Charity Bazaar. The charity bazaar showcased sustainable products and gourmet treats.
The mural was unveiled by Hokuto Kaya, Consulate-General of Japan in Bengaluru, and was met with great admiration. Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, Founder of Ekya Schools, expressed that the mural is a permanent symbol of cultural exchange and creativity. Miho Sakata Malhan remarked that the mural reflects the nature, culture, history, nostalgia, and future of Japan and India.
Attendees left inspired by the power of collaboration and cultural exchange. The festival was a testament to how art and education can transcend boundaries, fostering creativity and building bridges between cultures. For more information, visit Ekya Schools.
The success of the recent Japan Festival event and the impactful artworks demonstrated have paved the way for expanding such cultural and creative exchanges. Future collaborations are likely aimed at continuing to deepen ties through art and education, promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the youth of both countries.
