Bhubaneswar: Japan’s Ambassador to India, ONO Keiichi, has expressed his fondness for Odia cuisine during his recent visit to Odisha, praising the state’s rich food culture.

The envoy, who was in Odisha to attend an industrial event in Sambalpur, took time to enjoy a traditional meal of rice and Dalma, a signature dish of the state made with lentils and vegetables.

Sharing his experience on the social media platform X, he wrote that he “enjoyed Dalma in Odisha” and described it as “delicious” and a “wonderful reflection of Odisha’s rich culinary culture.”

ONO Keiichi had visited the state to participate in the unveiling ceremony of a joint venture between JSW Steel and JFE Steel Corporation in Sambalpur. The two companies have launched their 50:50 joint venture under the name JSW JFE Steel Limited, which will oversee integrated steel operations in the region.

Enjoyed #Dalma in #Odisha😋
Delicious, and a wonderful reflection of Odisha’s rich culinary culture!

ଧନ୍ୟବାଦ ଓଡ଼ିଶା🙏✨ pic.twitter.com/uzU2hh3684

— ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan (@JapanAmbIndia) April 26, 2026