Vietnamese culture showcased in colorful festival in Russia

Delivering opening remarks, Artyom Rykun, Vice Rector for International Affairs at Tomsk State University (TSU), praised Vietnamese students for their strong academic commitment, respect for educators, and active participation in campus life. He commended their achievements both in study and extracurricular activities, noting that the performances prepared for the event vividly reflected the richness of Vietnamese culture introduced to the local community.

Young participants from India, Indonesia and Russia learn about the traditional pot-breaking game.

Svetlana Kurilo from the International Student Office of Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) also expressed pride in Vietnamese students, highlighting their competence, discipline, and persistent efforts to master the Russian language.

The event turned TSU’s cultural center into a vibrant Vietnamese cultural space, offering visitors an immersive experience through three main areas: a performance stage in the main hall, a Vietnamese cuisine corner, and a traditional folk games zone in a smaller auditorium.

The artistic program presented a dynamic panorama of Vietnamese culture, blending heritage with contemporary expression. Audiences discovered the evolution of the ao dai (Vietnamese traditional long dress) through performances featuring different historical periods, experienced the strength and resilience of Vietnamese people through energetic martial arts displays, and enjoyed modern dance performances filled with youthful creativity.

Meanwhile, the culinary space recreated the warmth of Vietnamese family dining with traditional dishes, while the folk games area proved especially popular as visitors enthusiastically joined games representing regions across Vietnam.

Although the Vietnamese student community in Tomsk numbers only about 60 members, the event offered a rich and comprehensive cultural experience, demonstrating strong unity and pride in national identity. Beyond celebrating heritage, the festival served as a cultural bridge connecting Vietnam with international friends in Western Siberia.

Source: VNA