Indian Horsemen Find Home and Community in Urakawa, Japan

Indian Workers Find Home in Urakawa, Japan

In the heart of Urakawa, Hokkaido, a unique community thrives. Indian workers, drawn by the region's renowned thoroughbred industry, have found a home amidst the rolling hills and stables. Among them is Rizwan Alam, a 32-year-old native of Bihar, India.

Alam's day begins at 4 am, tending to the horses at Mishima Stud. He cleans stables, brushes and feeds the animals, and even rides yearlings, training them for human interaction. His dedication and respect for his superiors are a testament to the strong work ethic often found among Indians.

The growing presence of Indian workers in Urakawa is a relatively recent phenomenon. A decade ago, there were none. Today, they constitute a significant portion of the workforce, with their number reaching 371 by the end of October 2024. This influx is attributed to their ideal work styles and personalities, perfectly suited for the demands of the horseracing industry.

Alam's journey to Urakawa began in his home state of Bihar, one of India's poorest regions. Polo, a sport involving horses and sticks, is popular there, fostering a connection with these animals that many carry into their professions. Alam himself entered the equine industry at the young age of 15, later serving as a trainer in Qatar for nine years.

The promise of higher wages and a pleasant environment lured Alam to Urakawa in 2022. He found not only financial improvement but also a welcoming community that catered to his cultural needs. A local grocery store offers a range of Indian spices, and maternal and child-health handbooks are available in Hindi. Restaurants like Bharat, with its noticeable yellow sign, serve authentic Indian cuisine, offering a taste of home.

Despite the comforts, the language barrier remains a challenge. Alam, a father of a 2-year-old son named Shifan, worries about his child's education. He desires an English school, recognizing the importance of English education in India.

To bridge this gap, Minakshi Soni arrived in Urakawa under the JET Program. A native of Rajasthan, India, Soni is fluent in Hindi and Marwari, two of the many languages spoken in her diverse country. She serves as an interpreter for Indians at the town office and translates official notices, ensuring smooth communication.

Soni also assists Indian children in their education, recognizing the challenges they face due to the language barrier at home. She hopes to teach Japanese to both adults and children, fostering deeper understanding and friendship between the two cultures.

As the JET program allows her to stay in Urakawa for up to five years, Soni's journey as a cultural bridge is just beginning. Her presence, along with the growing Indian community, paints a vibrant picture of cultural exchange and mutual respect in the heart of Japan's thoroughbred industry.