Vietnam–India Cultural Exchange at NTTU: Strengthening International Cooperation Through Cinema

NTTU – On April 10, 2025, at the Information and Library Center, District 12 Campus, Nguyen Tat Thanh University had the honor of welcoming the Consulate General of India to attend an Indian film screening, held as part of the 2025 Indian Film Festival in Southern Vietnam. The event aimed to foster cultural exchange, promote mutual understanding, and strengthen the bond between the peoples of Vietnam and India.

In attendance at the event were Mr. Vipra Pandey – Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City; Mr. Mahesh Chand Giri – Consul, along with diplomatic staff, faculty members, and students of the university. Representing Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Lan Phuong – Vice President, warmly welcomed the delegation and engaged in a cordial exchange with representatives from the Indian Consulate General. The meeting not only strengthened the cooperative relationship between the two sides but also opened up new directions for development in academic collaboration, student exchange, and cultural engagement.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Lan Phuong – Vice President delivers a speech at the event

Speaking at the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Lan Phuong – Vice President of Nguyen Tat Thanh University – shared: “In the context of deepening globalization, connecting cultures is not only a prevailing trend but also an essential need in modern higher education. We believe that through meaningful activities like today’s event, students will gain new perspectives, develop multidimensional thinking, and enhance their capacity for global integration.” A highlight of the program was the screening of the acclaimed Indian film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, which follows the journey of three friends on a road trip across Spain as they embark on a path of self-discovery. The film delivers an inspiring message of positivity, encouraging individuals to push beyond their limits, live each moment to the fullest, and cherish the present.

Mr. Mahesh Chand Giri – Consul – expressed: “We are honored to take part in this film screening event at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, held as part of the Indian Film Festival. This event is not only a wonderful opportunity to share the cultural values of India but also a significant milestone in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between our two countries. We hope that such activities will continue to expand, creating more opportunities for learning, exchange, and the development of lasting relationships between Vietnam and India in the future.”

The selection of this particular film not only serves to highlight the rich and distinctive cultural values of India but also aims to inspire students to live proactively, dare to dream, and embrace change—essential qualities for young people on their journey toward building a meaningful future. The event also offered Nguyen Tat Thanh University students a vivid opportunity to explore and gain a deeper understanding of Indian culture and people through the lens of cinema—the seventh art.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Lan Phuong – Vice President presents a commemorative gift to the Indian Consulate General delegation, symbolizing the importance and strength of the international partnership between the two parties

With its vision of becoming an internationally accredited applied university, Nguyen Tat Thanh University is committed to fostering a multicultural, dynamic, and globally integrated learning environment. The university actively promotes international cooperation initiatives, creating opportunities for students to learn, engage in cross-cultural exchange, and broaden their global outlook.

NTTU students and faculty members show keen interest in Indian culture through cinema

The event once again reaffirmed the strong and enduring partnership between Nguyen Tat Thanh University and the Consulate General of India, while also highlighting the university’s commitment to becoming a solid bridge between cultures. It underscores the university’s dedication to nurturing a generation of global citizens—resilient, creative, and deeply humanistic.

Department of International Relations – Nguyen Tat Thanh University