PHNOM PENH, August 16, 2024 — Cambodian rapper Vanda, real name Man Vanda, returned home to a hero’s welcome at Phnom Penh International Airport on August 14, following his celebrated performance at the 2024 Olympics in France. The reception was attended by notable figures including Thong Khon, President of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia, and Vath Chamroeun, Secretary General of the Cambodian Olympic Committee.

Expressing his gratitude, Vanda dedicated his success to the late Kong Nai, a master of the traditional Cambodian musical instrument Chapey Dang Veng, whom he credited as a significant influence on his career. Speaking to the crowd, Vanda recounted a moment of reflection before his performance in Paris, where he promised to honor Kong Nai upon his return.

“This is a source of pride for me, the nation, and all of Cambodia,” Vanda stated, referring to his international exposure at the Paris Olympics.

Kong Nai, who passed away on June 28, 2024, in Kampot Province, had collaborated with Vanda on the hit song "Time To Rise" in 2021. The track, which features lyrics in both Khmer and English, merges the traditional sounds of Chapey Dang Veng with contemporary music, illustrating the evolving face of Cambodian art.

"Time To Rise" gained international acclaim and was performed by Vanda and Kong Nai at Moradok Techo Stadium before being featured at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics, projecting Cambodia’s cultural heritage onto the global stage.

Vanda’s achievements and his tribute to Kong Nai have been lauded by figures such as Prime Minister Hun Manet, highlighting the significance of traditional arts in modern Cambodian music and on the international scene.