India, Nov. 10 -- Finally, Japan got its first woman Prime Minister with Sanae Takaichi taking charge on October 21. Her election brought back memories from 2002 when I led a group of educational administrators from India to the beautiful land of sakura (cherry blossom trees).

At the inauguration, the leader of the Indian group was asked to introduce 'himself'. Amid the commotion that followed, walked up a woman, yours truly. A warm 'konnichiwa (hello in Japanese)' broke the ice. After the Japanese dance performance in gorgeous kimonos (traditional attire) and our introductory performances, we invited the hosts to join the free-flowing bhangra-cum-disco. Everyone participated happily and it set the ball rolling for the next 27 days.

The...