India Book of Records’ Event Strengthens Indo-Vietnam Cultural Ties New Delhi [India], February 14: The much-anticipated book Guardian of Heritage, a biography of renowned Vietnamese artist Dr Chu Bao Que, was released today at Triveni Kala Sangam, New Delhi. Authored by Dr Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury, the book is a tribute to Dr Chu Bao Que’s unwavering dedication to preserving Vietnam’s traditional folk arts. The India Book of Records (IBR) organised the event in association with Vishwa Hindi Parishad.

The programme was graced by esteemed dignitaries, with Mr Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Minister of State for Jal Shakti, as the Chief Guest, and Rajya Sabha members Dr Sangeeta Balwant and Mr Ram Chandra Jangra as the Special Guests of Honour. Mr Narender Kumar Verma, Chairman of Diamond Books (India’s leading and well-known publisher), was the Guest of Honour. Ms Uta Hanna Denhert, Asia Book of Records representative from Singapore and Dr Vipin Kumar, General Secretary of Vishwa Hindi Parishad, were also present. The launch was part of the Indo-Vietnam Cultural Exchange Programme, signifying the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two nations.

Dr Chu Bao Que, a stalwart in Vietnam’s artistic and cultural landscape, has played a pivotal role in safeguarding and promoting traditional Vietnamese art forms. His lifelong commitment to cultural preservation was internationally recognized when the World Record University (WRU) conferred an honorary professor degree.

Author Dr Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury admired Dr Que’s contributions, stating: “This book is not merely a biography but an example of the transformative power of art in preserving a nation’s heritage.” Dr Chu Bao Que expressed his gratitude, saying, “Art is the soul of a nation. Preserving folk arts is not just about history but about ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate their cultural roots.” The India Book of Records, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, has kept Indian records for the last two decades through its annual record book, IBR monthly magazine, and weekly TV show. In a remarkable gesture, the India Book of Records appointed Dr Que the Ambassador of the Indo-Vietnam Cultural Exchange Programme.

The Indo-Vietnam Cultural Exchange Programme began with a Vietnamese performance by Dr Que and a traditional Indian performance. The event concluded with a vibrant exchange of ideas on the importance of art and heritage preservation, reinforcing the Indo-Vietnamese commitment to cultural diplomacy.

The event witnessed an impressive gathering of notable personalities from India and Vietnam. The distinguished guest list included Assoc Prof Dr Ta Quang Dong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (MOCST); Honorary Doctor, Professor, Record Holder, and Artist Chu Bao Que, Chairman of the Policy and Development Consultative Council of the Vietnam Federation of UNESCO Associations (VFUA); Mr Tran Van Manh, Permanent Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of VFUA; Mr Pham Toan Vuong, General Director of Agribank Vietnam; Dr Nguyen Hoang Anh (Julia), Mr Nguyen Hoang Giang, Director of the Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Agribank) Bac Giang 2 Branch, and Mr Nguyen Xuan Thiet, Vice President, Deputy Secretary-General and Chief of Office of the Vietnam Federation of UNESCO Associations.

Other Vietnamese guests included Mr Hoang Thai Tuan Anh, Mr Nguyen Cong Vuong, Mr Nguyen Dinh Hoa, Mr Nguyen Hong Khanh, Mr Hoang Thanh Phuc, Mrs Chu Thi Hang, Mr Tran Viet Thang, Mrs Pham Thi Van, Mrs Nguyen Thu Trang, Ms Bui Thi Thu Hien, Ms Nguyen Thi Tuong Van, Ms Nguyen Thi Minh Thu, Ms Nguyen Thuy Huong, Mr Nguyen Hoang Gian, and Ms Trinh Thi Mui.

About the Book Professor Chu Bao Que, hailed as a radiant torch safeguarding Vietnam's cultural heritage, is a man whose entire life serves as a vivid testament to his unwavering dedication and sacrifices to preserve the nation’s artistic legacy. Rising from humble and challenging beginnings, he ascended to a position of profound influence, devoting his heart and soul to preserving, revitalising, and teaching the Quan Ho folk singing tradition of Bac Ninh, Vietnam. Through tireless efforts, he has restored these ancient cultural treasures to their rightful prominence, inspiring generations of Vietnamese youth to reconnect with their roots and continue the noble journey of protecting their ancestral heritage. The biography is published by Diamond Books.

With an unshakable resolve, Professor Chu Bao Que has also emerged as a pioneer in fostering cultural exchanges between Vietnam and India. His work is deeply rooted in the historical bond between the two nations, dating back to the 7th century when the Cham civilization in Vietnam revealed profound cultural parallels with India. These ancient connections have been revived through his dedicated efforts, laying a solid foundation for contemporary cooperation. His work bridges two great civilizations in a harmonious symphony of art, music, and heritage, forging a timeless legacy that celebrates shared cultural values and mutual enrichment.

About the Author Dr Chowdhury is a bestselling author of over 50 books, 35 on health and lifestyle and 15 on mind power and memory. However, Guardian of Heritage marks his first foray into biography writing. As the Chief Editor of the India Book of Records and Chairman of the World Records Union (WorldKings), he has been an influential figure in documentation and record-keeping. His healthcare initiatives through the HIIMS Group of Hospitals and Medical Academies span India, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Nepal. For the past decade, he has spent nearly a week every month in Vietnam, where he discovered the deep cultural bond between India and Vietnam. His admiration for Dr. Que’s work inspired him to document this incredible determination and artistic preservation journey.

For more information, visit indiabookofrecords.in (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR