In an era when cinema is often reduced to spectacle, few films remind us of its power to heal, to unite, and to build bridges across oceans. Love in Vietnam, directed by Rahhat Shah Kazmi, does precisely that. Based on the novel Madonna in a Fur Coat, the film is more than a love story — it is a testament to the universal language of human connection.
Shot across the sprawling landscapes of Vietnam, the film stars Shantanu Maheshwari, Avneet Kaur, and Vietnamese star Kha Ngan in roles that intertwine passion, identity, and belonging. Released theatrically in India on September 12, 2025, Love in Vietnam is a landmark cinematic collaboration between India and Vietnam that has secured a historic 10,000-screen theatrical release in China, set for Christmas 2025.
For Kazmi, the film is deeply personal. “Love in Vietnam is deeply personal to me. This film was born from a place of love — love for storytelling, for cultural connection, and for the beautiful bond between India and Vietnam. To see it come alive on screen, embraced by such a warm audience, is beyond anything I could have imagined. I carry immense gratitude in my heart,” the director shares.
At its heart, Love in Vietnam is a cross-cultural romance that asks: can love transcend history, geography, and language? Avneet Kaur, who brings vitality and fragility to her role, reflects: “Playing the lead in Love in Vietnam has been one of the most beautiful and meaningful experiences of my career. This film isn’t just a love story — it’s a celebration of two rich cultures coming together.”
Her co-star Shantanu Maheshwari is equally effusive: “Filming Love in Vietnam has been one of the most magical experiences of my life. It’s a story where love breaks through borders, languages, and cultures — and I felt that deeply with every scene.”
For Vietnamese star Kha Ngan, the project has been transformative: “My character allowed me to explore deep emotions and represent the spirit of Vietnamese women in a cross-cultural love story. Sharing this journey with Indian artists and bringing our two cultures together on screen is something I will always cherish.”
The genesis of the film lies in a chance conversation. Captain Rahul Bali, the producer, recalls how it all began: “Initially, I have been curating the ‘Namaste Vietnam Festival’ for the last three years. During that festival, Rahhat Kazmi was one of the guests. When he came, he said, ‘This is such a beautiful place. Why don’t we make a film here?’ I said, ‘Yes, the idea is very good. You make the story, I will mount the picture.’ That is how it all started.”
Bali describes the collaboration as a shared vision that kept attracting partners — Vietnam Airlines, Indian and Vietnamese embassies, and artists from both nations. “Producing Love in Vietnam has been more than just making a film — it has been about laying the foundation of a cinematic bridge between India and Vietnam. This collaboration is a union of two vibrant cultures through the power of storytelling.”
It’s a vision echoed by diplomats. Le Quang Bien, Consul General of Vietnam in Mumbai, describes the film as “a beautiful celebration of the deepening friendship between Vietnam and India.” He rejoices, “Through the universal language of cinema, we are bringing our cultures closer, fostering mutual understanding, and telling stories that resonate beyond borders.”
In Indian cinema, music often outlives the films themselves. Kazmi and Bali were keenly aware of this. With contributions from Armaan Malik, Amaal Mallik, Jubin Nautiyal, and Meet Brothers, the soundtrack aims not merely for chart-topping success but for timelessness.
“Music was one thing we were very, very clear about,” says Bali. “We wanted a film where the music is great, because I am a sucker for good music, and so is Rahhat. He is from Kashmir and I am from Punjab. The thing which bound both of us, I could say, was music and lyrics. We knew this had to be the soul of the film.”
What makes Love in Vietnam extraordinary is not only its story but its context. The film arrives at a moment when Vietnam is fast becoming a preferred travel destination for Indian tourists. “In recent years, Vietnam is becoming the destination,” notes Tran Hong Thai, Finance Director, Vietnam Airlines India. “People go not just to enjoy the tourist attractions, but to enjoy the Vietnamese spirit also.”
That cultural diplomacy extends far beyond India and Vietnam. Molina Asthana, National Chair for Sport, Art and Culture at the Australia India Business Council, sees the potential ripple effect: “It will be great to showcase the movie in Australia as we have vibrant diasporas from both the countries there. We are planning some special screenings with support from government agencies.”
Love in Vietnam is not only about two people falling in love — it is about two civilizations finding a common heartbeat. It is about how cinema can bridge distances, dissolve barriers.
