Latest news with #Galata


Japan Today
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Japan Today
Latvian staffer at Osaka expo goes viral with love of Japan
A Latvian staff member at the World Exposition in Osaka has drawn over half a million social media followers after posting about his experience of engaging with Japanese language and culture as a foreigner. Artur Galata, 31, who has been posting on X and Instagram, said he was "very happy to work in my favorite country" after having visited 11 times since April 2017, traveling to more than 40 of the 47 prefectures. Galata has been fascinated by Japanese anime since watching it aired in the Latvian language when he was an elementary school student. He then deepened his knowledge of Japanese culture and customs by reading books related to the country given him by his family. "The most attractive part is the kindness of Japanese people," Galata said, adding he has been particularly impressed by the well-maintained roads, packaging for onigiri rice balls sold at convenience stores, and how he was served at restaurants. His popular social media posts include humorous descriptions of how certain Japanese words using the same kanji characters are read differently and expressing his amusement about soy beans transforming into different kinds of food such as miso, soy sauce and tofu. In the expo, Galata has been working at the Baltic Pavilion jointly presented by Latvia and Lithuania, using four languages to welcome guests. He enjoys communicating with his followers and going to karaoke with other expo staff. During his planned eight-month stay, which began in April, Galata plans to visit the remaining prefectures he has yet to travel to, he said. © KYODO


The Mainichi
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Mainichi
Latvian staffer at Osaka expo goes viral with love of Japan
OSAKA (Kyodo) -- A Latvian staff member at the World Exposition in Osaka has drawn over half a million social media followers after posting about his experience of engaging with Japanese language and culture as a foreigner. Artur Galata, 31, who has been posting on X and Instagram, said he was "very happy to work in my favorite country" after having visited 11 times since April 2017, traveling to more than 40 of the 47 prefectures. Galata has been fascinated by Japanese anime since watching it aired in the Latvian language when he was an elementary school student. He then deepened his knowledge of Japanese culture and customs by reading books related to the country given him by his family. "The most attractive part is the kindness of Japanese people," Galata said, adding he has been particularly impressed by the well-maintained roads, packaging for onigiri rice balls sold at convenience stores, and how he was served at restaurants. His popular social media posts include humorous descriptions of how certain Japanese words using the same kanji characters are read differently and expressing his amusement about soy beans transforming into different kinds of food such as miso, soy sauce and tofu. In the expo, Galata has been working at the Baltic Pavilion jointly presented by Latvia and Lithuania, using four languages to welcome guests. He enjoys communicating with his followers and going to karaoke with other expo staff. During his planned eight-month stay, which began in April, Galata plans to visit the remaining prefectures he has yet to travel to, he said.


Kyodo News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Kyodo News
Latvian staffer at Osaka expo goes viral with love of Japan
OSAKA - A Latvian staff member at the World Exposition in Osaka has drawn over half a million social media followers after posting about his experience of engaging with Japanese language and culture as a foreigner. Artur Galata, 31, who has been posting on X and Instagram, said he was "very happy to work in my favorite country" after having visited 11 times since April 2017, traveling to more than 40 of the 47 prefectures. Galata has been fascinated by Japanese anime since watching it aired in the Latvian language when he was an elementary school student. He then deepened his knowledge of Japanese culture and customs by reading books related to the country given him by his family. "The most attractive part is the kindness of Japanese people," Galata said, adding he has been particularly impressed by the well-maintained roads, packaging for onigiri rice balls sold at convenience stores, and how he was served at restaurants. His popular social media posts include humorous descriptions of how certain Japanese words using the same kanji characters are read differently and expressing his amusement about soy beans transforming into different kinds of food such as miso, soy sauce and tofu. In the expo, Galata has been working at the Baltic Pavilion jointly presented by Latvia and Lithuania, using four languages to welcome guests. He enjoys communicating with his followers and going to karaoke with other expo staff. During his planned eight-month stay, which began in April, Galata plans to visit the remaining prefectures he has yet to travel to, he said.


Time of India
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Lokesh Kanagaraj reveals why Pooja Hegde is called ‘Monica' in Rajinikanth's 'Coolie'; makers reveal making video
Following 'Chikitu', 'Monica' from Rajinikanth 's 'Coolie' is storming the musical platforms, and the song, composed by Anirudh Ravichander , features a huge number of dancers. Pooja Hegde is making a special appearance for the dance number, and her hook steps have grabbed fans' attention. The makers have unveiled the making video of the viral song, and it has gained more attention. In a recent interview, 'Coolie' director Lokesh Kanagaraj spills the secret behind the song 'Monica' and its title. Inspired by Monica Bellucci Speaking with Galata, Lokesh Kanagaraj said that Anirudh and he have always been huge admirers of international actress Monica Bellucci. During the early stages of our song discussion, the 'Coolie' duo thought it would be exciting to create something inspired by her. Then even began with the idea of using Monica Bellucci's name in the lyrics, as her elegance and charm were the perfect mood-setters for the track they were working on. Pooja Hegde rocks with her dance moves Once the music took shape, the duo started thinking about who could visually carry that same energy on screen. That's when Lokesh Kanagaraj thought of Pooja Hegde, she had the grace and glam they were looking for. After she came on board, it felt natural to name her character Monica as a tribute to our original inspiration. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo The audience may not know the full backstory, but for the composer and the director, this was a fun and heartfelt nod to someone we both admire. And with Pooja Hegde's portrayal, the song and character came alive just the way we imagined. 'Coolie' gears up for grand release 'Coolie' is scheduled to hit big screens on August 14, and the film gears up for grand promotions with trailer launch, audio launch, and other big events planned to take place ahead of its release. Featuring Rajinikanth in the lead role, the pan-Indian action drama also has Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, Upendra, Soubin Bashir, and Reba Monic John among others in crucial roles.


Time of India
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Robo Shankar recalls his battle with alcoholism and Dhanush's life-saving support
Comedian Robo Shankar, known for his humorous roles in Tamil cinema , rose to fame through his stint on television before transitioning to films. However, after a period of dominating the screen, Robo Shankar suddenly disappeared from both the television and film industries. For a long time, fans were unaware of the reason behind his absence. In a candid interview with Galata, Robo Shankar revealed that his retreat was due to his battle with alcohol addiction, which took a severe toll on his health. Operation Sindoor Armed forces maintaining strong vigil after Pak ceasefire breach: MEA Pakistan violates ceasefire: Loud explosions, sirens haunt J&K- what we know so far Behind the scenes of ceasefire: Calls from Pakistan, Washington He admitted that his condition worsened to a life-threatening extent and advised others not to follow his destructive path. Nakkeeran Gopal: The lifeline that saved Robo Shankar During the worst phase of his struggle, Robo Shankar's life was saved by a veteran journalist, who played a crucial role in his recovery. Robo Shankar and his entire family remain immensely grateful to him for stepping in when no one else could. Having come back from the brink of death, Robo Shankar now enjoys life with his family, cherishing every moment and often reflecting on how close he came to losing it all. Dhanush 's unwavering support during Robo Shankar's tough times by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like [Click Here] 2025 Top Trending local enterprise accounting software Expertinspector Learn More Undo Robo Shankar also expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards actor Dhanush, who extended both emotional and financial support during a particularly tough time in his life. The two actors, who previously collaborated on 'Maari' and 'Maari 2', have had a close friendship for years. Robo Shankar shared a touching incident from the pandemic when he and his family were struggling financially, and Dhanush came to his rescue. Dhanush's help: A turning point in Robo Shankar's life Robo Shankar recounted how Dhanush helped him within minutes of being contacted, even when he was on his way to the airport. "In just 10 minutes, Dhanush provided me with more help than I could have hoped for," said Robo Shankar, emphasizing the significant impact Dhanush's support had on his life. Fans have since lauded Dhanush for his unwavering support during Robo Shankar's crisis. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . And don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .