People

Shradha Gupta is an energetic and proactive management student from Chandrapur, Maharashtra, who brings a disciplined and structured approach to her academic and leadership pursuits. Her background in Karate has instilled in her a strong sense of resilience, focus, and commitment—qualities that shape her ability to take initiative and work effectively in collaborative environments. With interests in dance, sports, and music, Shradha embodies a balanced blend of creativity, adaptability, and teamwork. These experiences have strengthened her cross-functional perspective and her ability to engage meaningfully with diverse cultures and ideas. Shradha’s interest in the Indo-Japan Research Center stems from her enthusiasm for exploring global perspectives, understanding structured and value-driven cultures, and contributing to platforms that promote international learning. She views the IJRC as an opportunity to broaden her worldview, participate in culturally enriching initiatives, and grow into a well-rounded management professional with a global outlook.

She is a finance graduate from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, with a strong interest in both finance and marketing. Curious by nature, she loves exploring new ideas and makes it a point to learn something fresh every single day. Her love for literature, content writing, and reading naturally pushed her toward research and creative writing. Along with this creative side, she has also built strong analytical skills through her work experience. Her connection with Japanese culture began in childhood when she first discovered her favourite cartoons and became fascinated by their stories. As she grew older, this interest expanded through Japanese brands, everyday practices, and philosophies that resonated deeply with her, especially after reading Ikigai. Joining IJRC felt like the perfect way to explore these passions further. As a member, she hopes to help IJRC grow as a space for learning, creativity, research, and stronger Indo Japan relations at IIM Nagpur and beyond.

He is a finance enthusiast with a strong academic foundation in molecular biology, which equips him with an analytical, structured, and research-driven approach to problem-solving. Years spent in scientific environments have shaped his attention to detail, his curiosity for complex systems, and his ability to think critically and independently. His interest in Japanese culture began early through his cousin’s Nintendo console, with Pokémon becoming a long-time favourite and igniting a broader appreciation for Japan’s creativity, discipline, and spirit of innovation. As he transitioned from the sciences to management, he sought a space that could bridge his past experiences with his current academic journey. The IJRC provides that bridge—allowing him to stay engaged with the cultural influences that shaped him while exploring new ideas through his MBA. For him, the chapter represents a meaningful platform to combine cross-cultural learning, research orientation, and managerial thinking as he grows in the field of finance.

Piyush Kumar Suman, a Mechanical Engineering graduate with a valuable exposure to the startup ecosystem. His role as a Business Associate has equipped him with practical experience in business planning, execution, and data-driven decision-making—capabilities further strengthened through his preparation for the UPSC Civil Services, which has broadened his understanding of governance, policy, and socio-economic systems. Piyush holds a deep interest in Japan’s economic model, industrial development, and social fabric. He is particularly intrigued by how Japan’s societal values, work ethic, and innovation-driven industries can inform India’s own growth story and create avenues for mutual cooperation. With a commitment to exploring these intersections, Piyush aspires to contribute meaningfully to the Indo-Japan Research Centre (IJRC), promoting research and dialogue that deepen India–Japan collaboration across economics, industry, and society.

Hailing from the picturesque "Venice of the East" in Kerala, Madhav is a graduate mechanical engineer who brings a blend of technical expertise and cross-cultural appreciation to the Indo-Japan Research Center. His two years at a US-based startup in Hyderabad were spent refining skills in product management and quality assurance, providing a practical, detail-oriented approach to innovation. Madhav’s fascination with Japanese culture began with early 2000s television, sparking an admiration for the creativity, storytelling methods, and the high-quality technology and lifestyle he saw presented. He looks forward to applying this curiosity within the Center. Beyond research, Madhav is a diehard Manchester United fan who plays football, and he enjoys gaming and fiction, fueling a love for compelling narratives and complex systems.

With a solid academic background in Mechanical Engineering from Vellore Institute of Technology, Nishika developed a strong foundation in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and energy-efficient system design through her undergraduate projects and internships. Her exposure to Japanese technology and work philosophy began during her internship at Daikin, where she observed firsthand the precision, discipline, and kaizen-driven approach that define Japanese engineering. As a trained Hindustani classical vocalist and a passionate music enthusiast, Nishika has always been drawn to diverse artistic traditions. This curiosity naturally expanded toward Japanese culture — from its music and aesthetics to its values of harmony, respect, and continuous improvement. Over time, these influences strengthened her fascination with Japan’s blend of innovation and cultural depth. For Nishika, IJRC stands out as a platform where her admiration for Japanese culture and technology can grow into meaningful learning and structured exploration. She sees IJRC as the ideal space to broaden her worldview, immerse herself in cross-cultural collaboration, and contribute thoughtfully to Indo-Japanese academic and cultural exchange.

She is an Electrical and Electronics engineer based in Raipur, Chhattisgarh with original roots in Andhra Pradesh and an emerging interest in finance and strategy. She possesses the structure, analytical, and inquiry-based approach to problem comprehension as her technical training and research background are supported by two published articles. Decades of work on academic research have sharpened her sense of detail, critical thinking and independent thinking. She developed an interest in Japan by watching traveling vlogs on YouTube about Japan, which showed the beauty, discipline and uniqueness of the country. This interest was intensified by Japanese dramas, which gave a peephole into the creativity and depth of the culture. IJRC orientation, which was fun and entertaining, ultimately pushed her into joining the chapter because she feels that this is where there is a place that she belongs. In her case, IJRC is the platform that helps her to integrate her technical, research-driven, and managerial learning at IIM Nagpur. As one of the members, she hopes to introduce a new perspective with her and use her research capabilities to be a beneficiary as she keeps on advancing in the field of finance and strategy.

Krushna is a B.Com graduate from Swami Vivekanand College and has worked as an Audit Assistant cum Accountant, where he built a strong foundation in analytical thinking, financial structure, and disciplined execution. Dynamic, adaptive, and energetic by nature, he combines precision with creativity, shaped further by interests in fitness, storytelling, photography, and learning across diverse fields. His fascination with Japan began through anime and evolved into an appreciation for the country's culture, technology, and value-driven way of life. He joined IJRC out of enthusiasm for teamwork, cultural exchange, and meaningful collaboration. Krushna hopes to contribute to the chapter through his strengths in storytelling, curiosity, and content refinement while learning more about Japan’s collaborative culture and innovative mindset. Through IJRC, he aims to deepen his global perspective while adding value to the chapter’s projects and community.

Kritik is a versatile IT Engineer from Mumbai, the vibrant "City of Dreams." His professional journey reflects a unique blend of creativity and technical precision. After spending a year immersed in the visual storytelling of the VFX industry, he transitioned into the high-stakes domain of Cybersecurity, where he served with Accenture for nearly two years. His connection to Japan is deeply personal, rooted in childhood memories of watching anime classics like Pokemon and Dragon Ball alongside his father. Over time, this initial fascination matured into a profound respect for Japan’s rich history and traditions. Through the Indo-Japan Research Center (IJRC), Kritik is now dedicated to mastering the disciplined ideologies of Japanese business philosophy. Furthermore, he is passionate about acting as a cultural bridge, striving to spread a deeper appreciation of Japanese heritage among his peers and professional network.

Aman Satyam, an electrical engineer from Bihar with a deep interest in systems thinking and cross-cultural learning, brings a grounded and inquisitive mindset to the Indo-Japan Research Centre. His experience working on the shop floor at Aditya Birla Group gave him exposure to real-time production, supply chain, and operations-an environment where he grew to admire the structured efficiency of Japanese operational philosophies. Aman’s connection with Japan began early through childhood shows like Doraemon, Kiteretsu, Shinchan, Totto-chan, and the chaotic fun of Takeshi’s Castle. What started as entertainment evolved into a lasting admiration for Japan’s discipline, aesthetics, culinary richness, and the serene charm of cities like Kyoto and Osaka. A science enthusiast with a nomadic spirit, he enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and engaging in sports as a way to stay grounded and collaborative. For Aman, IJRC is not just a club—it’s a gateway to meaningful exchange, global learning, and shared curiosity. He looks forward to contributing his operations background, open-mindedness, and team spirit to the chapter, while deepening his understanding of Japan’s culture and values alongside like-minded peers.

Akshay is a Civil Engineering graduate from NIT Bhopal, born and brought up in Damoh, Madhya Pradesh. His exposure to Japanese culture began during his school days through anime, with Naruto being the first that sparked his curiosity and admiration for Japan. Over the years, this interest grew deeper as he explored more anime and Japanese films, read manga, listened to Japanese music, and discovered the literary works of Haruki Murakami. He also finds inspiration in the simplicity and mindfulness of Zen stories. Akshay values empathy, kindness, discipline, and respect, principles that resonate deeply with Japanese culture. He views joining IJRC as a wonderful opportunity to contribute to Indo-Japan relations while learning from diverse perspectives. The chance to be part of this cultural exchange brings him immense joy and purpose.

Aishwarya is a BSc graduate from the state of Maharashtra- a place known for its forts, forests, and rich cultural heritage. She has always appreciated the calm of nature and the beauty found in simple, meaningful moments. Her interest in Japanese culture began during childhood, when animated films and shows captured her imagination. Over time, that curiosity grew into a deeper admiration for Japan’s values- harmony with nature, discipline in life, and the idea of finding beauty in everyday simplicity. Aishwarya enjoys learning about cultural philosophies like minimalism and mindful living, which she feels naturally connect her love for nature with Japanese thought. Reading, exploring art, and spending quiet time outdoors are the things that bring her joy and help her reflect. By joining IJRC, she hopes to continue this journey- learning more, sharing her own perspectives, exchanging ideas, and connecting with others who appreciate the elegance and thoughtfulness of Japanese culture. For her, it’s not just a hobby but a meaningful path of curiosity, connection, and continuous discovery.

Agnay is a BSc Chemistry graduate from Kerala with a deep interest in people, culture, and community building. His analytical mindset was shaped through science, while his communication skills developed during his experience as front-office staff. His journey with Japan began in childhood watching Japanese cartoons and playing with Toyota model cars, which sparked his admiration for Japan’s discipline, creativity, and precision. Sports has also played a major role in his life; as a national-level powerlifter and a state-level football player for Calicut, he learned resilience, teamwork, and focus. During college, he led the tour planning committee, coordinated events, and ensured inclusive decision-making, further strengthening his leadership. For Agnay, joining IJRC is a way to reconnect with the cultural influences that shaped him since childhood while becoming part of a warm, diverse community. He sees IJRC as a space for learning, sharing stories, celebrating traditions, and growing together. With his background in teamwork, leadership, and cultural curiosity, he hopes to contribute meaningfully while deepening his understanding of Japanese culture through the IJRC family.

With a strong academic foundation in Computer Science Engineering from Government Engineering College Thrissur and professional experience as a Software Engineer Trainee at Impelsys, Adhil developed his early career working on backend systems, APIs, and tech-driven problem solving. His technical training gave him a structured and analytical approach to understanding systems — an approach he now brings into research and management at IIM Nagpur. Despite having limited early exposure to Japan, Adhil was always intrigued by the country’s culture, civic discipline, innovation, and resilience. The idea that a small island nation could rise to global prominence through collective effort, respect, and precision deeply inspired him. Small glimpses through media, documentaries, and Japanese storytelling strengthened this fascination over the years. At IIM Nagpur, this curiosity found direction in IJRC. For Adhil, IJRC stood out as the platform that could offer the cultural and intellectual immersion he had always sought. No other club offered such a unique blend of research, cross-cultural understanding, and experiential learning. He saw IJRC as an opportunity to broaden his worldview — a space where his curiosity about Japan could evolve into meaningful learning, exchange, and contribution. Today, as a member of IJRC, Adhil hopes to explore Japan’s cultural and societal depth further while contributing his analytical mindset, storytelling experience, and growing interest in global perspectives to the chapter’s initiatives.

Abhradeep, a Computer Science and Engineering graduate from Kolkata, began his professional journey with Cognizant, working as a .NET developer for 22 months. During this time, he honed his technical and problem-solving skills. His curiosity about the intricacies of business led him to pursue an MBA at IIM Nagpur, aiming to bridge the gap between technical expertise and strategic decision-making. Beyond academics and work, Abhradeep is a trained magician and mentalist, blending creativity with analytical thinking to captivate and engage audiences. His passion for exploring cultures and philosophies has profoundly shaped his perspective. Deeply inspired by Buddhism, particularly Zen meditation, he embraces its principles of mindfulness, simplicity, and balance in his personal and professional life. Abhradeep's fascination with Japanese culture, heavily influenced by Zen Buddhism, extends to art, management practices, and daily life. He integrates Zen's clarity and focus into his approach to challenges, emphasising continuous learning and self-improvement. With his dedication to cultural understanding and holistic growth, Abhradeep aligns well with initiatives like IIM Nagpur's Indo-Japan Research Centre. His ability to intertwine diverse philosophies with modern business practices positions him as a catalyst for fostering innovation and cross-cultural collaboration.

Ankit Gujar, a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business (BBA-IB) graduate from the Oxford of the East, Pune, was first introduced to Japanese culture by his uncle, who worked in Japan. This early exposure sparked a fascination with Japan that has grown into a lasting appreciation for its art, values, and lifestyle. Ankit is an avid fan of anime, classic Japanese films, and the meticulous bonsai craft. He also deeply admires the Japanese principles of punctuality, which he incorporates into his own life. Beyond his cultural interests, Ankit's hobbies include playing football and badminton, as well as reading manga, which further fuels his connection to Japanese storytelling and themes. After completing his BBA-IB, he gained professional experience through a three-month internship at Finnovators, a mutual fund distribution firm, where he built a foundational understanding of finance. Ankit’s blend of business acumen, cultural appreciation, and commitment to learning embodies the qualities of a well-rounded individual with a deep-rooted connection to Japan.

Arjun is a commerce graduate from Kerala with experience as an assistant marketing manager at a startup named Iraaloom International Pvt Ltd. His curiosity about the world and openness to new experiences make him an energetic and outgoing individual drawn to vibrant communities. His journey into Japanese culture began in childhood, sparked by Japanese cartoons, and was deepened by one of the first books he read, Totto-Chan, which remains a personal favourite. Growing up in Kerala, Arjun developed a keen interest in photography, music, and cinema, which further enriched his appreciation for diverse cultures. He views joining IJRC as an exciting opportunity to immerse himself in the richness of Japanese culture and hopes to bring his unique perspectives while learning from others. Arjun believes that everyone’s story and background add value to shared experiences, and he is enthusiastic about the cultural exchange and growth IJRC can provide.

Gaurav, a mechanical engineer, although from Kerala, spent most of his life in Andhra Pradesh. Having roots in both these places made him aware of the importance of cultures and languages there. He is enthusiastic about learning something new through his experiences, whether academic or life in general. His awareness of Japan and its culture began during his childhood when he watched a game show called 'Takeshi’s Castle'. But later in life, this interest grew bigger when he saw how disciplined the people were at the FIFA 2022 World Cup and heard about the great experiences of his cousin's trip to Japan. He views IJRC as a place to learn more about the culture, arts, and innovations and contribute to the cross-cultural research centre by exploring the similarities and differences between Indian and Japanese management principles.

Hisham, a proud native of Kerala, also known as God's Own Country, is a dedicated civil servant with a background in the Kerala Public Service Commission and the Kerala Government Secretariat. His passion for travel fuels his love for exploring and experiencing diverse cultures, which led him to join the Indo-Japan Research Centre (IJRC) to delve into the rich nuances of Japanese culture. His UPSC Civil Services exam preparation sparked an enduring fascination with Japan’s unique history, particularly its impressive growth post-Meiji Restoration. Hisham admires Japan’s post-World War II economic resurgence, and he’s a firm believer in its management philosophies like Kaizen and Keiretsu, which have shaped modern business practices worldwide.

Kamal Rawat, a civil engineer from Ajmer, Rajasthan, has a wealth of experience as an Assistant Highway Engineer, contributing to infrastructure projects across India. With a B.Tech in Civil Engineering, he applies a strong technical foundation to ensure quality and precision in every project. Alongside his engineering expertise, Kamal has developed a keen interest in finance and analytics, exploring how data-driven insights can enhance decision-making and efficiency in the field. Kamal is also captivated by Japan’s geopolitical landscape, industrial history, and technological advancements. Japan’s journey through economic transformation and innovation inspires him, and he envisions opportunities for collaboration between India and Japan that could benefit both nations. By merging his technical skills with a deep cultural curiosity, Kamal aims to strengthen connections and shared knowledge between these two vibrant countries, which makes him an ideal member of the Indo-Japan Research Centre (IJRC).

Malavika is a civil engineer hailing from Kerala, a land of picturesque backwaters. She has always embraced a holistic approach to learning, consistently engaging in a variety of academic and extracurricular activities throughout her educational journey. Her interest in Japanese culture began during her childhood by watching vibrant Japanese cartoon characters. This fascination grew stronger with her pursuit of Karate, where she earned a black belt. An avid learner with a passionate interest in music, she likes to explore Japanese classical music, wherein she finds the cultural importance of the structure of its melody fascinating. Beyond appreciation of the arts, she is keen to understand the richness of cultural heritage and innovations in Japan. For her, IJRC is a perfect entry point for broadening her knowledge and contributing to cultural exchange on campus. She views IJRC as a learning space that brings her together as a community, where she would get to share insights and cultural awareness and create beautiful experiences not only for her but also for her peers by immersing them in the beauty and depth of Japanese culture.

In a world where culinary delights meet animated adventures, Misba stands as a vibrant connoisseur of Japanese culture. A B.Com graduate from the historic city of Pune—famed for its forts and rich legacy—Misba has found herself captivated by the art of discipline and the philosophy of Kaizen, the Japanese commitment to continuous improvement. Her love for anime, especially the magical works of Studio Ghibli, has deepened her fascination with Japan’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. Beyond her academic background, Misba is an avid traveller and foodie with a particular fondness for Japanese cuisine, savouring everything from sushi to ramen. Her passion for storytelling and culture extends to a love for reading, where she delves into novels that explore worlds as enchanting as those she sees in her favourite anime. With each culinary exploration and every page, she turns, Misba immerses herself deeper into the culture she adores, making her journey one of curiosity, taste, and endless discovery.

Manvi Roy, hailing from the culturally vibrant city of Patna, blends creativity with intellectual curiosity. With a BBM degree in marketing and currently pursuing an MBA at IIM Nagpur, she finds joy in exploring the intersection of analytical thinking and artistic expression. An avid reader, she immerses herself in stories from a wide range of genres, drawn to both thought-provoking narratives and escapist fiction. Her eclectic tastes extend to music, where her love for the bold and dynamic energy of rock shapes her vibrant personality. Fascinated by the intricacies of global cultures, she is always on the lookout for inspiration in art, fashion, and unique traditions, making her perspective both creative and diverse. Her fascination with Japan began during her teenage years through the captivating storytelling of Japanese cartoons, which opened the door to a broader exploration of Japanese culture. This initial spark grew as she delved into Japanese films, literature, and dramas, drawn to their emotional depth and aesthetic innovation. Japan’s avant-garde fashion, meticulous craftsmanship, and ability to harmonise ancient traditions with cutting-edge trends only fuelled her intrigue. Joining the Indo-Japan Research Centre was her way of channelling this passion into impactful academic and cultural exchanges. She views IJRC as a platform to connect her interests and enhance cross-cultural collaborations. She aspires to contribute to IJRC’s mission of building enduring bridges between the two nations and advancing global innovation through shared values and understanding.

Preeti Rana, hailing from the serene landscapes of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, brings a deep-rooted passion for environmental preservation and sustainability. Growing up amidst the pristine beauty of Uttarakhand, she developed a strong commitment to ecological conservation, which drives her advocacy for green initiatives. A B.Sc. (PCM) graduate with a strong scientific foundation, Preeti combines her expertise with a keen interest in marketing to promote sustainable practices and engage diverse audiences. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen—continuous improvement—she applies its principles to drive consistent growth in both her personal and professional pursuits. Preeti is captivated by Japan's unique blend of ancient traditions and modern advancements, especially their resilience and innovation in the face of challenges—from post-World War II recovery to their approach to managing natural disasters. This balanced synergy, cultural respect and adaptability inspires her vision of fostering cross-cultural learning and collaboration. At the Indo-Japan Research Centre (IJRC), she seeks to deepen her understanding of Japan's sustainable practices and leverage her passion and skills to contribute to building meaningful bridges between India and Japan’s rich cultural landscapes.

Priyanshu is a finance enthusiast with a background in business administration and experience in sales and marketing for an edtech startup. In this role, he developed skills in market research and analysis, along with expertise in both B2B and D2C sales. Having lived in diverse regions across India, including Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, Priyanshu has developed a strong appreciation for cultural diversity. An avid reader, Priyanshu’s interest in Japanese culture began with manga (Japanese graphic novels). Since then, he has explored the works of various mangakas, gaining deep insights into Japanese culture and history. Inspired by Japanese management principles, he actively incorporates Kaizen—the pursuit of continuous improvement—into his personal and professional life. With a passion for continuous improvement and a nuanced understanding of Japanese culture, Priyanshu brings a fresh perspective that is well-suited to the Indo-Japan Research Centre at IIM Nagpur. His dedication to bridging cultures and fostering collaborative growth aligns seamlessly with the centre’s mission.

Shruti Shahare, an IT engineer and recent graduate, found her fascination with Japanese culture sparked when her sister introduced her to the world of anime. From following the epic journey in One Piece to experiencing the magical landscapes of Studio Ghibli films, she quickly immersed herself in various aspects of Japanese culture. What started as a love for anime deepened into a broader appreciation for Japan’s traditions, history, and values. Her interest extended to exploring Japanese philosophy, particularly Zen Buddhism, which she admires for its principles of mindfulness and simplicity. As a dedicated member of the Indo-Japan Research Center (IJRC), Shruti actively contributes to fostering cross-cultural exchange. Her involvement in IJRC reflects her passion for building bridges between cultures, sharing her knowledge, and encouraging mutual understanding. Through her work, she is committed to creating a lasting impact on cultural appreciation and exchange, embodying her vision of a more connected and harmonious global community.

Darsh hails from the industrial city of Vadodara in the state of Gujarat. He is a mechanical engineer and has two years' experience in capital equipment sales and marketing. During his work experience he has dealt with some of India's biggest clients of pharmaceutical and chemical industry. He is abjectly interested in marketing analytics and worked extensively on Power-Bi to seamlessly integrate sales with analytics during his work experience.   Fueled by a deep-seated interest in history, geopolitics, economics, and the Indo-Japan relationship, Darsh is captivated by Japan's post-World War II economic resurgence. Eager to delve into this transformative period, Japan's political economy and national security policy, he envisions making substantive contributions to the academic excellence of the Indo-Japan Research Center, aligning his practical insights with a scholarly exploration of the intricate dynamics of Japan's history and politics and delving into the potential for enhanced collaboration between India and Japan across different sectors.

Sakshi is a Computer Science Engineer with three years of experience in a startup. She takes pride in her Indian Air Force upbringing, which has significantly shaped her personality and values. She has been exposed to various cultures and perspectives from a young age, making her adaptable and open-minded. Her passions include a deep love for nature, plants, and animals. She's an avid basketball player and enjoys practicing calligraphy. Her fascination with Japanese culture began during her childhood when she watched Japanese cartoons, and this interest led her to develop a special affection for her bonsai plants. Concepts such as ikigai and kaizen have further piqued her interest in Japanese culture. Growing up in a diverse cultural environment, Sakshi sees joining the IJRC as an exciting opportunity to explore another new culture. She is eager to delve deeper into Indo-Japanese relations and hopes to offer her fellow batchmates exposure to the rich tapestry of Japanese culture. Sakshi is also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion. She believes that everyone has something unique to offer. She is excited to collaborate with her fellow batchmates and to learn from their diverse experiences and perspectives.

Aswin A Asokan, an executive member of the Indo-Japan Research Center, offers a rich tapestry of skills and experiences. Originating from the picturesque landscapes of Kerala, Aswin holds an engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering and is presently pursuing his MBA at IIM Nagpur. With a background in the fire and safety industry. His interests encompass a wide range of activities. An enthusiastic badminton player and a motorcycle aficionado, he finds solace in the thrill of two-wheelers. A connoisseur of Japanese culture and anime, Aswin is also a passionate movie buff and captures life's moments through videography and photography. His profound fascination with Japanese values, particularly their emphasis on strong relationships, impeccable work ethics, and unwavering pursuit of perfection, fuels his commitment to the Indo-Japan Research Center.   As an enthusiastic motorcyclist, Aswin holds a profound reverence for Japanese two-wheeler manufacturers due to their unwavering commitment to achieving superior quality. Furthermore, he possesses an ardent love for Japanese cuisine, savouring the flavours that delight his palate. By embarking on his journey as a member of the Indo-Japan Research Center, Aswin aspires to delve deeper into the intricacies of Japanese culture, forging lasting memories and invaluable insights along the way.

Avish, an electronics and communication engineering graduate from Chandigarh, has actively participated in multiple NGOs and clubs, enabling the acquisition of a diverse skill set. His enthusiasm for each endeavour he undertakes is evident in his unwavering dedication. He has a profound affection for Japanese culture and consistently seeks to learn from it.   He's pursuing an MBA from IIM Nagpur, demonstrating his commitment to further enhancing his knowledge and skills. His connection to the Indo-Japan Research Centre (IJRC) further emphasises his commitment to fostering Indo-Japanese relations. Through his educational background, ongoing MBA pursuit, and honed skills, Avish stands as a testament to the power of one's passion and dedication to make a meaningful impact on cross-cultural exchange, ultimately strengthening ties between India and Japan. His ongoing pursuit of Japanese culture and association with the IJRC reflect his deep commitment to this cause.

Kirti is a B.com graduate who hails from the city of dreams, Mumbai. Before joining IIM Nagpur, she was pursuing Chartered Accountancy, wherein she was a part of the Auditing team for notable clients like Siddhivinayak Temple Trust and Cipla Ltd. during her 3-year articleship. She aims to expand her horizon in the field of Finance during her MBA journey.   When she’s not studying, you will find her enjoying her peace and quiet, reading a thriller novel, or trying to relearn Guitar. She is a very artistic person who engages herself with various art forms like sketching, painting, rangoli, and crocheting, to name a few. Her deep love for Art and culture was one of the reasons she was drawn towards Japan.   Like most children, Kirti grew up watching various Japanese cartoons, from Doraemon to Pokémon. Her interest in Japanese culture only grew from then onwards, like decorating her very first room with bonsai plants and her origami creations, and coming across Ramen and Sushi, which kept her wanting more. Coming from Mumbai, she had learned to embrace different cultures from a very young age and was very keen on exploring more. By joining IJRC, she aims to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and make good memories along the way.

Rushabh is an Electronics and Telecommunications engineer from Mumbai. Post his graduation he started working with Accenture as an SAP ABAP Developer for 27 months where he was majorly associated with a European Utility Giant and was dealing with them on various IT enhancements. After this stint he wanted to know business processes for different domains at a higher level hence he went on to pursue his MBA at IIM Nagpur.   His motivation to join the Indo-Japan Research Center was to know more about international relations between the two Asian countries who have a lot of similarities. He has grown up watching a lot of Japanese shows since childhood which makes him motivated to know more about Japan's traditions and ideologies. He is fascinated about Japanese industries especially in the motor vehicle industry and how they collaborate with the global leaders and maintain high standards. His mission is to spread awareness about things which can influence people and improve them by learning about the relations and inculcating them.

In a world where cultures converge and knowledge knows no bounds, let us introduce you to Hemnt, a passionate explorer on a captivating journey through the intricate tapestry of Japanese culture, history, and arts.   Hemnt's academic journey began with a degree in Textile Technology, where he honed his analytical skills and discovered a talent for understanding the human element, particularly through his fascination with psychology. Currently pursuing a Master's in Business Administration at Indian Institute of Management, Nagpur, Hemnt has expanded his expertise to encompass a broader understanding of business operations.   Hailing from Lucknow, Hemnt is a dedicated explorer of all things Japanese. His enthusiasm for this captivating realm extends from traditional tea ceremonies to the vibrant world of contemporary manga and anime. He's on a journey to unravel the intricacies of Japanese culture, unveil the layers of history, and celebrate the diverse expressions of art.   Hemnt's dedication to understanding and sharing the beauty of Japan makes him an ideal member of the Indo-Japan Research Centre (IJRC). With his background, passion, and inquisitive spirit, Hemnt is not just an observer but an active participant in building bridges of cultural understanding. His journey is a testament to his commitment to fostering stronger Indo-Japanese ties and advancing the goals of the IJRC.

Soniya is an Industrial and Production Engineer currently pursuing her MBA. She hails from the heart of India, Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. Born and raised in this culturally rich city, she has always been keen on learning about different cultures around the world. Beyond her academic pursuits, she is an Indian classical dancer, proficient in both Bharatnatyam and Kathak.   With a background as a content writer and manager, she's no stranger to the world of words, and they serve as her sanctuary. In her free time, you'll often find Soniya engrossed in the pages of novels, taking solace in the art of storytelling. It's through her reading habits that she discovered Japan, its culture, and lifestyle. The vivid descriptions and immersive narratives in novels opened a window to a world far beyond her own. This newfound connection to Japan ignited a passion for its culture, language, and simplistic lifestyle. She is immensely fascinated by the country's rich history, unique traditions, and vibrant pop culture.   By joining the Indo Japan Research Center, Soniya aims to not only deepen her understanding of Japanese culture but also to assist fellow enthusiasts in their quest for knowledge.

Jyotika Singh, a resilient graduate from the 'Manchester of the East,' Kanpur, completed her B.Com degree in 2022. Her unwavering dedication and hard work paved her path to IIM Nagpur, where she is currently pursuing her MBA. This transition to IIM Nagpur signifies a significant accomplishment, underscoring her resilience and determination. She is not just a dedicated student; Jyotika is also a talented YouTuber and influencer known for her engaging content and collaborations with prominent beauty and lifestyle brands. Her passion for marketing, ignited by her influencer career, deepened her interest in the field. She aspires to leverage her academic pursuits at IIM Nagpur to enhance her expertise and contribute to the industry. Also her unwavering commitment to community service is evident through her active involvement in various events since the inception of the NGO "Madad Ki Raah" after her 12th grade. Jyotika's fascination with Japanese culture and art has drawn her to the Indo-Japan Research Centre (IJRC) at IIM Nagpur. She sees IJRC as a platform to explore her interests, immerse herself in Japanese culture, and contribute to global collaboration and innovation. Jyotika's journey reflects resilience, passion, and a steadfast commitment to personal and societal betterment, perfectly aligning with IJRC's mission of fostering global collaboration and innovation.

Tanisha calls herself a nomad having lived her life in half of the Indian States. As a published writer, classically trained keyboard player, theatre artist, Toastmasters member, cinephile and a performer, she constantly discovers new ways to remain intimately connected with the world of art. She's a marketing graduate with a BBA degree, blessed with a keen eye for detail. Her strength lies in her ability to observe and connect her insights from various realms into the intricate world of business.   Her affinity for Japan runs deep, rooted in a long-standing passion. From immersing herself in Studio Ghibli movies and delving into manga to taking the stage in Kabuki theatre plays, savouring authentic Japanese cuisine, and exploring the world of Haruki Murakami, her connection to Japan is profound. Beyond mere interest, she goes as far as applying Kaizen concepts from Japanese philosophy to enhance her everyday life, revealing a genuine and heartfelt devotion to all things Japanese. And being a member of the International Japan Research Center (IJRC) has been a pivotal step for her, drawing her one step closer to realising her dream of bridging the rich cultures of Japan and India.