On January 12, 2023, the January Sumo Grand Tournament kicked off at the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan, drawing significant attention not only for the sport itself but also for the vibrant presence of Indonesian celebrity Devi Sukarno. Known for her longstanding passion for sumo wrestling, Devi's attendance at the tournament has become somewhat of a tradition.
Dressed to impress, Devi donned a bold crimson outfit adorned with a corsage on her left chest, standing out among the crowd. Fans and commentators alike were quick to notice her captivating appearance, which seemed to amplify the excitement of the matches. During the live coverage of the event, announcer Yasuo Fujii remarked, "I can't concentrate because I'm so distracted by Devisan's presence," indicating the star power she brought to the occasion.
Throughout the day, Devi displayed her enthusiasm for the competitions, cheering and clapping as the wrestlers engaged in intense bouts. Capturing the moment on her smartphone, she blended the roles of spectator and supporter, showcasing her genuine appreciation for the sport. One onlooker described the electrifying atmosphere, saying, "I was thrilled just watching her enjoy the competition,” reflecting the communal spirit shared by everyone present.
Social media buzzed with reactions to Devi's participation, highlighting how her presence added to the energy of the event. Comments poured in such as, "Her presence is overwhelming," and "I can't help but focus on her; she's the star of the show, even among the sumo wrestlers." Such sentiments reiterated the importance of celebrity involvement in drawing diverse audiences to traditional sporting events.
Devi Sukarno has become synonymous with the Sumo Grand Tournament, often seen seated prominently among the spectators. Her regular attendance has evolved from mere interest to passionate engagement, and the January event was no exception. Shifting gears from the matches to her reactions, she expressed genuine surprise and delight as wrestlers delivered remarkable performances.
The warmth of Devi's spirit and her lively interactions created memorable moments throughout the opening day of the tournament. Fans had the opportunity to witness her spontaneous reactions, particularly during the match between Dai-osato and the up-and-coming Shōzō. Devi's expressions of shock and excitement as she witnessed one team’s loss captured the essence of live sports—that thrilling unpredictability.
The morning also saw the appearance of various other celebrities, including renowned rakugo performer Tsuruko Shofuku and actor Tokuma Nishioka, signaling the event's status as more than just sports; it’s a cultural spectacle.
The spotlight was also on Dai-osato, who, dressed impeccably, made his way to the ring amid cheers. Devi was not the only one reacting; her presence seemed to encourage others to engage, as spectators found themselves joined together with shared enthusiasm for both the sport and the notable figures gracing the event.
One particularly special moment occurred when the sumo wrestler Kotoshō kicked off the day’s events with his newly commissioned decorative mawashi, inscribed with Devi's name as tribute, making for an unforgettable entrance. This feature was met with applause and delight by the audience, with comments like, "Kotoshō’s new mawashi is stunning", highlighting the unique blend of sumo tradition and celebrity culture.
Social media engagement peaked as viewers shared images and comments throughout the day, extending the conversation about the intersection of traditional sports and popular culture. Memorable images of Devi alongside the wrestlers began circulating, generating shares and discussions online.
The tournament’s grandeur, amplified by Devi’s bombastic presence, helps solidify the January Sumo Grand Tournament as not just another sporting event, but also as part of Japan's living cultural narrative. With each tournament, the stories of athletes, fans, and celebrities intertwine, creating compelling narratives for subsequent tournaments.
A day as lively and engaging as January 12, 2023, captures the essence of what the Sumo Grand Tournament aims to achieve: community, support, and celebration of heritage through the vibrant sport of sumo.