India has been an extraordinary chapter in my life: Aoi Ishimaru

In the vibrant cultural mosaic of India, The Japan Foundation has been playing a pivotal role in introducing and nurturing an appreciation for Japanese culture. As Aoi Ishimaru, Director, Arts and Cultural Exchange, The Japan Foundation, New Delhi, bade farewell to the foundation, she reflected on her remarkable journey in a heartfelt conversation.
“India has been an extraordinary chapter in my life,” Aoi Ishimaru began, her voice brimmed with emotion.
“I arrived here with an open mind and an eager heart, and what I found was a nation so rich in history, art, and culture. It has been an honor to represent Japan and to create connections through our shared love for cultural exchange.”
Her tenure, marked by resilience and innovation, witnessed the blossoming of cultural ties between the two nations. “Every moment has been a learning experience,” she rejoiced, recalling her initial days navigating a new environment and building relationships that would become the foundation of her work.
Under Ishimaru’s leadership, The Japan Foundation’s initiatives flourished, including the much-acclaimed Japanese Film Festival (JFF). “One of the proudest moments of my tenure was when Makoto Shinkai visited India for the premiere of Weathering with You,” she shared with a smile.

“The excitement among fans was electrifying. It demonstrated the deep connection Indian audiences feel with Japanese animation and storytelling.”
The festival, which has grown in scale and diversity, has developed a strong reputation for showcasing not just films but the essence of Japanese culture. “We wanted to create an immersive experience,” she explained.
“Cinema is a universal language, and it allowed us to reach hearts and minds across generations.”

The pandemic posed unforeseen challenges, yet Ishimaru’s determination ensured the continuation of cultural activities. “We transitioned to virtual platforms almost overnight,” she recalled. “Our Window into Japan series became a lifeline for those yearning to connect with Japan. From workshops to live Q&A sessions, the response was overwhelming.”
She spoke passionately about the collaborative dance project she spearheaded. “It was a testament to the resilience of art,” she recounted. “Despite being physically apart, we created something beautiful that came to life on stage in 2022.”

“What has been most rewarding is the warmth and enthusiasm of the Indian audience,” Ishimaru reflected. She recalled a petition started by Indian fans to bring Weathering with You to cinemas. “It was humbling and inspiring to see such passion for Japanese culture,” she added. “Their energy pushed us to deliver our best.”
From online language courses to art exhibitions, The Japan Foundation’s efforts under her guidance have left an indelible mark. “These programs are more than cultural exchanges; they are about building lasting friendships,” she asserted.

Having completed her tenure, Ishimaru is proud of what has been achieved. “I am particularly proud of the reach of our online initiatives,” she said. “It’s heartening to know that people from even the remotest corners of India could experience a piece of Japan.”
In her new role, Ishimaru will be heading the overseas business of CoMix Wave Films Inc., “It is a wonderful studio that produces animations by Makoto Shinkai. From now on, I want to do her best to convey the excellence of Japanese animation to every corner of the world, including India, of course.” She further added, “Five years ago, when I first met Shinkai-san and the CoMix Wave Films team, I had no idea that such a future would await me.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Ishimaru shared a heartfelt message: “To everyone who has supported my work, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. India has given me so much, and I leave with memories that I will treasure forever. I hope the connections we have forged will continue to thrive and inspire future generations.”

In her time in India, Aoi Ishimaru has not just shared the beauty of Japanese culture but also embraced the vibrancy of India, creating a legacy of mutual respect and admiration. Her journey is a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy and the unifying force of art and human connection.