Japanese ambassador can't get enough of the iconic Bihari litti chokha: Check viral video

Keiichi Ono, the Japanese envoy serving in India and Bhutan, has been winning admiration across social media platforms after posting a photo of himself savoring Bihar’s beloved traditional dish, litti chokha. Presently exploring various parts of Bihar, Ambassador Ono captured public affection not only by trying the renowned local cuisine but also by blending in a bit of regional flair through a Bhojpuri greeting.

“Namaskar, Bihar! I finally got to taste the iconic litti chokha—Gajab Swad Ba!” he posted on X (formerly Twitter), accompanied by a smiling photo of himself relishing the hearty meal. The snapshot features him enjoying litti chokha along with an array of other native Bihari dishes, highlighting his enthusiasm for cultural immersion.

The post quickly gained traction online, amassing close to 200,000 views and generating a wave of responses from appreciative users. One user enthusiastically suggested, “You must try Champaran-style mutton next time—it’s a culinary experience you’ll cherish!” Another added a playful suggestion: “To truly enjoy the essence of Indian food, try eating it with your hands next time!”


A third user offered a broader perspective, commenting, “It seems Japanese ambassadors have mastered the art of public diplomacy like no one else.”

While indulging in the region’s culinary richness, Ambassador Ono also kept his followers informed about his diplomatic activities. In a follow-up post, he spoke of his official engagements, specifically highlighting a visit to a major development project. “Together with the head of the Japan Tourism Agency, I toured the Bihar National Highway Improvement Project, which is being financed by the Japanese government. This initiative is expected to drastically cut down travel time across the state and enhance its appeal to tourists and investors,” he wrote.

His posts reflect a balance between cultural appreciation and professional engagement, offering a well-rounded glimpse into his visit.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time a Japanese diplomat has captured Indian hearts through food and cultural bonding. In 2023, a video featuring Hiroshi Suzuki, then Japan’s Ambassador to India, enjoying a plate of pani puri and a traditional Banarasi thali in Varanasi had gone viral, showcasing a similar spirit of openness and cross-cultural warmth.

Ambassador Ono’s visit, his Bhojpuri shoutout, and his fondness for litti chokha underscore how food continues to be a powerful bridge between cultures, sparking joy and building goodwill—one bite at a time.