India-Vietnam Joint Issue : Martial Arts

India-Vietnam Joint Postage Stamp – Celebrating 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations

India and Vietnam share a long-standing and cordial bilateral relationship rooted in history, culture, and shared values. From the heroic struggle against colonialism led by Mahatma Gandhi and President Ho Chi Minh, to the establishment of full diplomatic ties on January 7, 1972, the two nations have continued to foster close ties across political, cultural, and economic spheres.

Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Shared Vision

The bilateral relations between India and Vietnam were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Vietnam in 2016.
The relationship has since been guided by the historic ‘Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and People’, adopted during a Virtual Summit on December 21, 2020, with a Plan of Action for 2021-23 to implement shared goals.

The period 2022-23 marks the celebration of 50 years of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of India’s independence (‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’).

Cultural and Developmental Bonds

India and Vietnam share deep civilizational links, particularly through shared Buddhist heritage and Cham traditions.

• The Archaeological Survey of India completed restoration of three temple groups at the My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam, reflecting the cultural partnership.
• Yoga has emerged as a powerful cultural bridge, with thousands of Vietnamese practicing Yoga during the International Day of Yoga each June.

Under the Mekong Ganga Cooperation Framework, India supports community infrastructure development in Vietnam through Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).
The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme and scholarships further strengthen people-to-people exchanges.

Martial Arts Heritage – Kalaripayattu and Vovinam

India and Vietnam share a strong affinity in traditional martial arts:

• Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art of Kerala, India, is considered the oldest and most scientific martial art globally. It blends yoga, meditation, self-defense, and weapon-based combat techniques, combining tradition and discipline.
• Vovinam Viet Vo Dao, founded by Grand Master Nguyen Loc in 1936, aims to develop self-defense skills to fight colonialism and promote national independence. It emphasizes high-flying kicks and dynamic combat techniques and has over 2 million students globally.

Commemorative Souvenir Sheet – A Symbol of Friendship

To celebrate this historic partnership, the Department of Posts is proud to issue a Joint Commemorative Postage Souvenir Sheet depicting both Kalaripayattu and Vovinam.
This commemorative stamp serves as a tribute to the strong cultural, social, and political ties between India and Vietnam, while also promoting the national identities of both countries.

It stands as a symbol of shared heritage, mutual respect, and continued collaboration across multiple sectors, strengthening the diplomatic relationship and inspiring future generations.