thesilkroadtoday
Hanoi, Vietnam — The vibrant literary scene of Vietnam welcomed a significant cross-cultural publication at the Hanoi Literary Meet, as the India–Vietnam Contemporary Poetry Anthology, published under ISISAR Peace Research Publication, was presented to readers at the Hanoi Book Festival.
The anthology, titled Psalms of Shadows and Silence: India–Vietnam Poetry Anthology, stands as a powerful testament to poetic dialogue between two rich literary traditions. Published by Penprints, the volume brings together diverse poetic voices under the broader vision of “Within and Peace,” reinforcing literature as a bridge for intercultural harmony and understanding.
A central force behind the anthology is Guest Editor Vo Thi Nhu Mai, a Vietnamese poet, translator, critic, and educator based in Perth, Australia. With over two decades of bilingual literary engagement, she has played a vital role in introducing Vietnamese poetry to global audiences through numerous translation projects. Her work—deeply rooted in themes of memory, belonging, and cultural identity—infuses the anthology with a nuanced cross-cultural sensibility. Her international recognition, including being named among the Top 100 Most Influential Literary Figures in Spain (2025), underscores the global relevance of her contribution.
The editorial vision is further enriched by Nandita Samanta, a multifaceted literary figure whose work spans poetry, translation, visual art, and literary criticism. With multiple poetry collections and translation volumes to her credit, her sensitivity to language and aesthetics has shaped the anthology’s inclusive and layered poetic voice. Her experience in cross-genre creativity adds a distinctive artistic dimension to the publication.
Equally instrumental is Sreetanwi Chakraborty, poet, academic, and Chief Editor of Litinfinite Journal. An Assistant Professor at Amity University Kolkata, she brings both scholarly depth and creative energy to the anthology. With numerous publications, international festival participations, and contributions to multiple anthologies, her work reflects a dynamic engagement with contemporary literary discourse, enriching the anthology’s thematic and stylistic diversity.
In a note shared by Dr. Sudipto Chatterjee, special appreciation was extended to Vo Thi Nhu Mai for her initiative in bringing the project to fruition, as well as to Supriyo Chakraborty and Sreetanwi Chakraborty for their valuable support. Gratitude was also expressed to Nandita Samanta for her continued engagement in ISISAR’s literary and cultural activities.
The anthology’s presence at the Hanoi Literary Meet marks an important milestone in Indo-Vietnamese literary collaboration, offering readers a unique opportunity to explore contemporary poetic expressions shaped by diverse cultural experiences.
This initiative not only celebrates poetry but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and shared creativity between India and Vietnam, reinforcing literature’s role as a universal language of peace and understanding.
