The Embassy of India, Phnom Penh with Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP) organized the launch of Khmer translation of 'Mahabharata' by Mr. Thon Hin at the RUPP, Phnom Penh on 26th May, 2018.

The event was graced the presence of His Excellency Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Minister of Education, Youth and Sports, Kingdom of Cambodia as Chief Guest and Her Excellency Manika Jain, Ambassador of India to the kingdom of Cambodia. H.E. Chuch Phoeun, Secretary of State, Ministry of Culture & Fine Arts, H.E. Sao Chivoan, Secretaty of State of Ministry of Rural Development, H.E. Dr. Chhun Vannak, Advisor to Ministry of Environment, H.E. Chet Chealy, Rector of RUPP also attended the event as distinguished guests. Large numbers of academicians, students, faculty from various Universities in Phnom Penh witnessed the launch of the book. Mahabharata is one of the two most important ancient epics of India, the other being the Ramayana. The cultural links and relations between India and Cambodia has existed for centuries. We shared the legacy of Ramayana and Mahabharata which is evident from the inscription in the ancient temple of Angkor Wat and Koh Ker Temple. It is the best example of the depth and richness of close relation between two countries.

Mr. Thon Hin is a prominent writer in Cambodia. In addition to his book on Mahabharat, he had earlier written books on Ramayana that was published by Embassy of India in 2004, Khmer grammar, Rajasabha in Khmer language, which is about language being used in Royal Court.