UNESCO & Vietnam team up with India Book of Records

In a significant move to bolster international relations through the arts, UNESCO Vietnam has joined forces with the India Book of Records (IBR) to launch the Indo-Vietnam Cultural Heritage Exchange Program. This landmark initiative aims to provide Indian talent with a global platform while celebrating the deep, shared cultural legacy of both nations through literature, cinema, and the performing arts.

IBR, which has been documenting Indian achievements for over two decades, is leveraging its extensive reach to become a key player in cultural soft diplomacy. This collaboration with UNESCO Vietnam is facilitating multiple, high-profile projects designed for broad cross-cultural impact.

The literary component of the initiative was marked by the release of the book, Nguoi Bao Ton Di San – The Guardian of Heritage, on February 14, 2025. This publication was honored with launches in both India and Vietnam, paying tribute to the shared heritage and cultural custodians of both countries.

Following the literary success, the program shifted its focus to cinema with the announcement of the film, Vuon Tinh Yeu – Prem Ki Surdhara, at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi. This film reflects the Indo-Vietnam cultural ethos and is currently in production. Filming is underway in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, with the next crucial phase scheduled to take place in Hanoi, Vietnam. The much-anticipated film is slated for release on February 14, 2026.

The most direct form of cultural immersion recently took place in India. From October 2-5, 2025, IBR hosted a Vietnamese Cultural Dance Training Program at its head office. This intensive four-day workshop provided young Indian talents with hands-on learning from top Vietnamese experts. The program was expertly guided by Prof. Chu Bao Que, UNESCO project brand ambassador, alongside Dr. Nguyen Hoang Anh (Julia), Artist Chu Thi Hang, and Artist Nguyen Thu Trang.

Sixteen dedicated students, aged 13-17, representing schools across Faridabad, New Delhi, and Mt. Abu, were selected for specialized training in Vietnamese dance techniques and cultural nuances. This focused effort on youth aims to build a lasting bridge between the countries for the next generation.

Looking ahead, the initiative is set to continue its reciprocal nature. The next phase will transport the exchange to Vietnam, where Indian dancers will teach Indian classical dance forms while simultaneously receiving in-depth training on Vietnamese cultural heritage. Nominations for this exciting upcoming Indo-Vietnam Cultural Dance Activity are now open on the official IBR website. This continuous, reciprocal engagement underscores a meaningful commitment to mutual appreciation and cultural unity.