Japan
‘REKA’ Only Indian Restaurant Wins Top Prize in Tokyo’s Edogawa City. REKA Restaurant, founded by the mother-son duo Rekha Puranik and Yogendra Puranik (fondly known as Yogi よぎ), received the prestigious top industry award in Edogawa City. This remarkable recognition makes REKA the only Indian home-food restaurant, alongside two manufacturing companies, to earn this honor.
A Journey of Resilience and Hard Work
The story of REKA Restaurant began on January 26, 2013, in Tokyo. Rekha Puranik, a visionary and hardworking mother, devoted herself entirely to the business, working 15-hour days, 365 days a year, and even longer hours on weekends during the first few years.
Yogi, then a banker, dedicated his evenings and weekends to the restaurant, serving food, washing utensils, and managing the accounting. Their shared commitment and passion for authentic Indian cuisine created a space that quickly became a favorite in the community.
From Nishi Kasai to Kasai: A Thriving Business
The restaurant’s first location in Nishi Kasai became a bustling hub, with 100-200 customers lining up on weekend afternoons. Positive reviews propelled REKA into the ranks of Japan’s top 500 restaurants across all categories, and Gurunavi hailed it as the “Jewel of Indian Food” in Japan. The restaurant also attracted attention from television channels and magazines, further cementing its reputation.
However, in 2017, Rekha Puranik faced a health crisis due to fatigue, collapsing at the restaurant. While hospitalized for over 20 days, the family witnessed an outpouring of love from customers, who filled the restaurant shutter with heartfelt “get well soon” messages. This challenging time led to the decision to relocate the restaurant to a quieter area in Kasai, Tokyo.
The new location, adjacent to the Edogawa India Culture Center, has become a haven for food lovers and a cultural hub.
Recognition for Excellence
The Edogawa City Industry Awards, established in 1955, honor businesses that significantly contribute to the community. With no application process, the awards are purely merit-based, making REKA’s achievement particularly special. In its 62-year history, only about 400 companies have received this top honor.
A Family’s Legacy
Rekha Puranik and Yogi’s journey is a testament to resilience, teamwork, and the power of family support. Their shared dream has not only brought authentic Indian cuisine to Tokyo but also created a lasting cultural impact.
Yogi, known for his groundbreaking achievements as the first Indian-born MLA in Japan and other leadership roles, credits his mother Rekha for inspiring his values of perseverance and dedication. Together, they have turned REKA into more than just a restaurant—it’s a symbol of cultural integration and community spirit.
As they celebrate this milestone, the Puranik family extends their gratitude to their loyal customers and supporters who have been part of their incredible journey.
