Rajnikant films popular in Japan: PM

Tokyo, Dec 14: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said he was delighted by the amazing popularity of Tamil superstar Rajnikant's films in Japan, especially 'Muthu', which was released here as 'Odori Maharaja' (The Dancing Maharaja).

''I am delighted to hear the popularity of 'Odori Maharaja' among young people here. Our children were delighted to see 'Odori Asimo'-the dancing robot!'' Dr Singh said in an address to a joint session of the Diet, the Japanese parliament.

''The friendship between people is the cornerstone of any strategic partnership,'' he stressed.

The Prime Minister said he was told that the number of Indian restaurants in Japan had increased phenomenally.

''I assure you that 'sushi' and 'tempura' are becoming popular in India!'' he added.

He noted that 2007 was the India-Japan Friendship Year and the year of India-Japan Tourism Exchange. He said the two sides also hoped to substantially increase air connectivity between them.

''I invite young and old Japanese to visit India and see for themselves the many splendours of ancient and modern India,' he added.

UNI

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