Keiichi Ono Meets Freedom Fighter Asha Sahay Choudhry
Japanese Ambassador Keiichi Ono met 95-year-old freedom fighter Asha Sahay Choudhry in Patna during his Keiichi Ono India Visit on April 15, 2025.
Choudhry, a veteran of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, inspired Ono with her dedication to India’s independence.
Ono shared his admiration on X, highlighting her courage and wishing her continued health.
Asha Sahay Choudhry’s Role in Rani of Jhansi Regiment
Born in Kobe, Japan, in 1928, Asha Sahay Choudhry joined the Rani of Jhansi Regiment of the Indian National Army (INA) in 1945.
Inspired by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, she trained in Bangkok and fought for India’s freedom.
Her father, Anand Mohan Sahay, served as a minister in the Azad Hind Government, strengthening her patriotic resolve.
Keiichi Ono’s Visit to Mahabodhi Mahavihara
During the Keiichi Ono India Visit, the ambassador visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabodhi Mahavihara, in Bodh Gaya.
Accompanied by Naoya Haraikawa, Ryuta Saito, and Masahiro Kawakami, Ono toured the sacred Bodhi Tree, main shrine, and other sites.
The Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee presented mementos, reinforcing India-Japan spiritual ties.
Cultural Significance of Keiichi Ono’s India Visit
The Keiichi Ono India Visit underscores the deep cultural and historical bonds between India and Japan.
Ono’s meeting with Choudhry honors shared histories through the INA’s Japanese alliances.
His Mahabodhi Mahavihara visit strengthens Buddhist heritage connections, fostering friendship and mutual respect.
FAQs About Keiichi Ono’s India Visit
Q1: Who did Keiichi Ono meet during his India visit in April 2025?
A: Keiichi Ono met 95-year-old freedom fighter Asha Sahay Choudhry, a veteran of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, in Patna.
Q2: What was the purpose of Keiichi Ono’s India visit?
A: Ono’s visit aimed to honor India’s freedom struggle and strengthen cultural ties, including meetings with historical figures and visits to spiritual sites like Mahabodhi Mahavihara.
Q3: Why is Asha Sahay Choudhry significant in the context of Keiichi Ono’s India visit?
A: Born in Japan and a member of the INA, Choudhry represents the historical collaboration between India and Japan in the freedom struggle, celebrated during Ono’s visit.
Q4: What did Keiichi Ono do at Mahabodhi Mahavihara?
A: Ono toured the UNESCO site, offered prayers at the Bodhi Tree and other sacred spots, and received mementos from the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee.
Q5: How does Keiichi Ono’s India visit reflect India-Japan relations?
A: The visit highlights shared Buddhist heritage, historical INA ties, and ongoing diplomatic efforts to deepen cultural and spiritual connections.
