Jaishankar unveils Rabindranath Tagore's bust in Vietnam

India and Vietnam, two countries with deep-rooted historical connections dating back almost two millennia, have been forging an enduring bond rooted in Buddhism. This relationship has been further solidified by literary exchanges and cultural influences. In a recent diplomatic gesture, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, inaugurated a bust of Nobel Laureate writer and poet Rabindranath Tagore in Bac Ninh city, symbolizing the historical and cultural ties between the two nations.

The historical and cultural connections between India and Vietnam, enriched by the introduction of Buddhism, literary exchange, and the influence of Rabindranath Tagore, continue to strengthen the bond between these two nations. The inauguration of Tagore’s bust in Bac Ninh city stands as a testament to the enduring relationship and mutual respect that both countries share, fostering a brighter future for their diplomatic and cultural ties.

Historical Roots: Indian Monks and the Introduction of Buddhism

Indian Monks’ Role: Historical records reveal that Indian monks played a significant role in introducing Buddhism to Vietnam, laying the foundation for a shared spiritual heritage.
The Bodhi Tree: A living symbol of the age-old links between India and Vietnam is the Bodhi tree, a gift from President Rajendra Prasad to President Ho Chi Minh in 1959. This gift continues to symbolize the enduring connection between the two nations.

Literary and Cultural Exchange: Tagore’s Influence

Gitanjali in Vietnam: Rabindranath Tagore’s famous work, “Gitanjali,” was translated into Vietnamese and published in 2001, bridging the cultural gap and bringing Tagore’s poetry to Vietnamese readers.
Tagore’s Visit: Historical records also indicate that Tagore paid a three-day visit to Ho Chi Minh City in 1929, leaving a lasting socio-cultural impact on Vietnam.
Nobel Laureate: Rabindranath Tagore’s “Gitanjali” earned him the Nobel Prize for Literature, making him the first non-European to receive this prestigious award in 1913. This literary achievement continues to connect India and Vietnam through a shared appreciation for Tagore’s poetic genius.

Celebrating Tagore: A Postal Stamp and a Bust

Postal Stamp Tribute: In 1982, Vietnam issued a postal stamp in honor of Rabindranath Tagore, further showcasing the admiration and respect the nation holds for the poet.
Minister Jaishankar’s Visit: During his visit, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his deep appreciation for the reverence shown to Tagore in Vietnam and believes that unveiling the bust of Gurudev Tagore will contribute to the international character of Bac Ninh city.

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