On the evening of December 10, 2012, the Indian Odissi Dance Troupe performed at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities. The program was organized by the Indian Embassy in collaboration with the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of full diplomatic relations (January 7, 1972 – January 7, 2012) and the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the strategic partnership (July 2007 – July 2012) between Vietnam and India.The event was attended by His Excellency Ranjit Rae (Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to Vietnam), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Van Kim (Vice Rector), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Dinh Chinh (Head of the Faculty of Oriental Studies), along with numerous faculty and students from the Faculty of Oriental Studies and other faculties in the university. During the program, the artists performed three works: Dhaye Subarna Barna, Krishna Saranam, and Konark Kantee. Odissi (Orissi) is a classical dance form from India originating in the state of Orissa. Often performed in temples, Odissi has emerged as a highly cherished, "sculptural" dance style. Despite historical upheavals and periods of near extinction, with the support of the government (after Independence) and the dedication of the dancers, Odissi has gradually been restored and developed in India.
The Odissi delegation's performance and visit were sponsored by the Indian Council for Cultural Exchange (ICCR) and the Government of India. As part of the activities celebrating the Vietnam-India Friendship Year 2012, prior to this program, a folk dance performance by the Panghat art troupe (India) also took place at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities on November 19, 2012.
