Indian philanthropists seek Cambodia’s support for Vishnu statue to boost tourism

PHNOM PENH, Jan 21, 2026 (KPT) — Indian philanthropists have sought Cambodia’s backing for the construction of a Cambodia–India Vishnu statue, describing the project as a catalyst for cultural diplomacy and religious tourism.

The proposal was raised Tuesday during a meeting between Tourism Minister Huot Hak and Rajiv Raj Jagasia, founder of the Diplomacy for Good Foundation.

Jagasia said the statue would be funded by Indian donors who value Cambodia’s heritage and civilizational links with India. He said the initiative aims to promote peace, preserve shared traditions and position Cambodia as a destination for Indian cultural and religious travelers.

The foundation also discussed broader cooperation to attract more Indian visitors through cultural exchanges and tourism diplomacy. Jagasia presented a humanitarian donation of two tons of rice for frontline forces and displaced families, signaling solidarity amid current challenges.

Hak welcomed the initiative, praising Indian philanthropists for deepening people to people ties and promoting Cambodia’s cultural image abroad. He highlighted more than seven decades of diplomatic relations and centuries old cultural connections between the two countries.

India has become one of Cambodia’s fastest growing tourism markets, with more than 75,000 Indian visitors in 2024 drawn to Angkor’s UNESCO listed heritage, Hindu Buddhist temples and an expanding hospitality sector.