North News
New Delhi, October 10
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Vientiane, Lao PDR at the invitation of Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, witnessed a performance of the Lao version of the Ramayan, known as Phalak Phalam or Phra Lak Phra Ram on Thursday. The prestigious Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang performed the epic, which continues to be celebrated in Laos, reflecting the shared cultural heritage and deep civilizational ties between India and Laos. Modi emphasized that this connection is enriched by the shared heritage of Buddhism and the Ramayan, with aspects of Indian culture being preserved in Laos for centuries.
The Prime Minister’s visit coincides with the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit, where he is engaging in discussions on progress in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN and the future of Indo-Pacific cooperation. In his departure statement, Modi said that this year marks a decade of India’s Act East Policy. He expressed confidence that the visit will deepen India’s ties with ASEAN countries, particularly Laos, with which India shares close cultural and civilizational bonds.
India’s Archaeological Survey is also playing a significant role in restoring the Vat Phou temple complex in Laos, further highlighting these ties. Several Lao dignitaries, including the Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Education and Sports, the Governor of the Bank of Lao PDR, and the Mayor of Vientiane, were present at the event.
Before the Ramayan performance, Modi participated in a blessing ceremony by senior Buddhist monks from the Central Buddhist Fellowship Organization of Lao PDR, led by Most Venerable Mahaveth Masenai, the abbot of Si Saket temple. The shared Buddhist heritage adds another layer to the close civilizational bonds between the two nations.
