Kotaro, an elderly cat, lived a brief but impactful life with his owners, Kojiro and Tomoe. After his death, he became a corporate savior and a legend in the rakugo storytelling world.
Kotaro's story began at a cat cafe. Initially named Bunta, he was adopted by Kojiro and Tomoe, who renamed him Kotaro. He passed away from kidney disease ten months later.
Kojiro, facing financial struggles with his hanko business, created Kotaro-themed seals. After initial slow sales, social media boosted sales, but the idea was copied.
Seeking innovation, Kojiro collaborated with the company managing Osamu Tezuka's works, creating character-themed hanko. This led to products featuring popular franchises.
Kotaro's story continued with a rakugo performance. The story, based on the Okayamas' life, features Kotaro as the main character, highlighting themes of recurrence.
Kojiro credits Kotaro with inspiring him to find new opportunities. He sees Kotaro's story as a modern version of a tale of gratitude.
5 Comments
Manolo Noriega
I'm not buying the 'inspiring' quality. It reads as more 'opportunistic'.
Fuerza
This is so heartwarming! It sounds like a beautiful tribute to a beloved cat.
Manolo Noriega
I love cats, but this feels like a stretched story. How can a cat be a 'corporate savior'?
Ongania
I admire how they turned a sad situation into something positive and inspiring.
Manolo Noriega
What a creative way to honor Kotaro's memory and find success!