Vietnamese historic play 'Iron Land' debuts at BRICS Theatre Festival in New Delhi

Through the wartime story of those who fought to protect their homeland, the performance introduces Vietnamese history and culture while conveying a universal message of peace.

The festival, organized by India’s Ministry of Culture under its BRICS Chairmanship, runs from October 12 to 14 at the National School of Drama under the theme "Shared Stories, Shared Futures." The event brings together performing arts troupes from nine BRICS member and partner nations- India, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Russia, Iran, South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Ethiopia, featuring 11 plays across traditional, classical, contemporary, and experimental theater.

Conceived and directed by scriptwriter and Honorary Professor Le Quy Duong, the Vietnamese production portrays Heroic Vietnamese Mother and Hero of the People's Armed Forces Nguyen Thi Ranh (affectionately known as Ma Tam Ranh), alongside local guerrillas, militia, and residents of Cu Chi during the resistance wars against French colonialism and US imperialism.

By depicting ordinary people standing resilient through relentless bombardments, the play paints a vivid picture of Cu Chi’s tradition of struggle and brings out the true strength of the people in wartime.

Program Manager Vo Minh Thanh noted that the production aims to help Indian and international audiences better understand Vietnamese history, culture, and spirit.

Rather than presenting a theatrical work, Vietnam’s participation provides an opportunity for cultural dialogue, allowing artists to meet, share, and find common ground through universal human values such as love for homeland, compassion, and the longing for peace.

The festival's opening ceremony also emphasized the unifying power of culture. Indian Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that while diplomacy facilitates negotiation and economic ties boost growth, culture helps people cross political boundaries, deepen mutual understanding, and build lasting bonds.

Through "Iron Land," Vietnam presents on the international stage not just the story of a heroic land, but a resonant message of patriotism, human strength, and the desire for peace-enduring values that reach the hearts of global audiences.

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