Japan’s ambassador to India, Keiichi Ono, met 95-year-old Asha Sahay Choudhry who was a member of the Rani of Jhansi regiment. Born in Japan in 1928, Choudhry was inspired by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose to join the Indian National Army and dedicate herself to India’s freedom struggle.
Taking to social media platform X, Ono shared his admiration for Choudhry, writing, “I had the honor of meeting Ms. Asha Sahay Choudhry, who was born in Japan in 1928 & joined the Rani of the Jhansi Regiment, inspired by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, dedicating herself to India’s independence. Deeply admire her devotion to her motherland & wish her continued health.”
Earlier, the ambassador visited the Mahabodhi Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya. Calling it a symbol of deep spiritual and cultural connection between Japan and India, he wrote in the visitors’ register:
Ambassador Ono was accompanied by Naoya Haraikawa, commissioner of the Japan tourism agency, Ryuta Saito, second secretary at the Japanese embassy and embassy official Masahiro Kawakami. The delegation was given a guided tour of the complex, including the main shrine, the sacred Bodhi Tree, Muchalinda Sarovar, Ratna Griha, Chankraman (Jewel Walk), Ajapala Nigrodha and Rajayatna trees, where they offered prayers.
The Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) later presented mementos to the Japanese envoy. BTMC member secretary Mahashweta Maharathi, along with members Kiran Lama and Arvind Singh, welcomed the delegation and expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued interest in Buddhist heritage.