The annual festival is jointly organized by the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations (HUFO), and the Vietnam-India Friendship Association (VIFA).
The grand opening ceremony occurred at Hoa Binh Theater in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed business leaders, experts, luminaries, and diverse individuals hailing from Vietnam as well as India.
Avika Gor – star actress of the popular Indian TV series Balika Vadhu – thanks her Vietnamese fans during the opening ceremony of Namaste Vietnam 2023 Festival, August 12, 2023. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre News |
Vietnamese singer Vo Ha Tram performs her latest hit ‘Ve Voi Em,’ which features Hindi verses, at the opening ceremony of Namaste Vietnam 2023 Festival, August 12, 2023. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre News |
Participants had the opportunity to engage with esteemed artists from India, such as Avika Gor from the renowned Indian TV series Balika Vadhu, esteemed actor and filmmaker Anupam Kher, and popular pop star Alisha Chinoi.
The attendees were entertained with cultural performances from India, including traditional dances like Kuchipudi and Qwali. Additionally, a Vietnam-India fashion show was presented, adding an extra element of spectacle to the event.
During his introductory address, Madan Moha Sethi, Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized that both India and Vietnam are currently undergoing a crucial phase of development, accompanied by sizable youthful demographics who aspire for improved opportunities and quality of life.
The speaker also conveyed his optimism about the future of the bilateral relationship between the two nations, expressing his hope that it will continue to grow stronger.
Madan Moha Sethi, Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City speaks at the opening ceremony of Namaste Vietnam 2023 Festival, August 12, 2023. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre News |
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Ho Xuan Lam, standing vice-president of the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations, makes remarks at the opening ceremony of Namaste Vietnam 2023 Festival, August 12, 2023. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre News |
Meanwhile, Ho Xuan Lam, the Vice President of HUFO, emphasized that the festival showcases and highlights the cultural identity of India to the people of Ho Chi Minh City.
“This event also provides an exceptional opportunity to enhance India’s visibility through trade, tourism, and cultural promotion initiatives, fostering meaningful discussions on collaboration in railway development,” remarked Lam.
Indian businesses will have the opportunity to connect and establish fruitful partnerships in Ho Chi Minh City.
The opening ceremony featured Indian traditional dances, such as the Kuchipudi dance shown here. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre News |
The Namaste Vietnam 2023 Festival is scheduled to be held from August 12 to 15 in various cities including Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, Tuy Hoa, and Hanoi.
The festival’s main attraction is the Indian Film Festival, presenting the worldwide debut of two significant Indian films along with the showcasing of five other popular features.
The Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City is pleased to announce the organization of three informative seminars on the collaboration between Vietnam and India in the fields of tourism, railways, and cinema. These seminars aim to foster stronger bilateral relations and explore potential opportunities for mutual growth and development. Attendees can expect engaging discussions and valuable insights from industry experts. We cordially invite you to join us and be a part of these enlightening events.
Namaste Vietnam 2023 Festival Schedule
On the evening of August 12th, we will commence our event with a grand opening ceremony held at the prestigious Hoa Binh Theater. It promises to be a remarkable evening filled with excitement and memorable experiences. Join us as we embark on this extraordinary journey.
August 13 to 15: Film Festival at Galaxy Nguyen Du Cinema
On August 14, a series of seminars on Vietnam – India cooperation will be held at the prestigious Rex Hotel, running for the entire day.
On the evening of August 14th, we invite you to join us for India Night, a special connecting event taking place at the prestigious Sofitel hotel. Immerse yourself in the vibrant and rich culture of India as we showcase traditional performances, authentic cuisine, and meaningful conversations. Don’t miss this opportunity to network and forge new connections in a delightful and sophisticated atmosphere. Make sure to mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable evening.
August 16 to 17: Activities in Da Lat and Tuy Hoa.
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