The name Vaanda in a Cambodian context most commonly refers to Mann Vannda (មន្ត វណ្ណដា, born 22 Jan 1997), better known by his stage name VannDa (often stylized Vannda or VAANDA). VannDa is a Cambodian rapper and singer – widely regarded as one of the country’s biggest music stars. A Sihanoukville native, he began releasing independent rap music around 2016 and in 2019 joined Baramey Production, a leading Khmer music label. Over the past few years he has “rapidly risen to prominence as one of Cambodia’s most influential musical artists” . He is best known for blending traditional Khmer musical elements with modern hip-hop, a style that has resonated both at home and abroad . His breakthrough hit “Time to Rise” (2021, featuring Master Kong Nay and Baramey producer Songha) exemplifies this fusion – the song’s lyrics exhort Cambodian youth to honor their heritage while moving boldly into the future. The track (shot at the National Museum of Cambodia) has become iconic: it was the first Cambodian song to top 100 million views on YouTube (over 123 M as of 2024 ) and has been called an anthem of resilience and pride for the Cambodian people . VannDa’s other singles (e.g. “MAMA”, “Khmer Blood”, “Y.O.U.”, “Solo Again”, etc.) have also garnered millions of streams, making him a cultural phenomenon in Cambodia.
In addition to record-setting hits, VannDa has achieved several firsts for Cambodian music. His video for “Time to Rise” won Best Video of 2021 from LIFTED Asia and he was later named to Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 (2023) for his impact. He has collaborated with regional stars (e.g. Vietnamese rapper Suboi, Thai rappers F.HERO and Awich, and the pan-Asian “Asian State of Mind” track with Awich, Jay Park and others) and performed at major festivals (Rolling Loud Thailand 2023, ASEAN Music Showcase 2021 in Singapore, Big Mountain Thailand, etc.) . In August 2024 VannDa made history as the first Southeast Asian artist to perform at an Olympic Games closing ceremony . At the Paris 2024 closing ceremony he delivered a “standout performance” of “Time to Rise,” a powerful showcase of Cambodian culture that blended Khmer folk motifs and language with English rap . Cambodia’s prime minister and Olympic officials greeted him on his return as a national hero , noting that his global stage moment – complete with traditional-patterned attire – shone the spotlight on Khmer heritage.
VannDa’s impact on Cambodian society and culture has been widely noted. Experts say his success has “changed Cambodian music forever,” giving young Cambodians a role model and turning “the soundtrack of Cambodia’s future” . Through his music – “an artful blending of modern and traditional forms” – he has helped introduce Khmer arts to international audiences . His label-mate and producer Laura Mam of Baramey Production praised his Olympic performance as a proud representation of Khmer heritage . By showing that Cambodian hip-hop can compete on the world stage, VannDa has inspired a generation to “dream big” .
Major works/profiles: VannDa’s official YouTube channel features all his music videos (e.g. “Time to Rise (feat. Master Kong Nay)” – YouTube, which has 100+ million views). His label page (Baramey Production) and social media (Instagram [@therealvannda], Spotify, etc.) profile him as Cambodia’s “hip-hop superstar” .
Other Notable Individuals Named Vaanda/Vanda
Citations: Authoritative sources and news outlets (Phnom Penh Post, Asia News Network, Wikipedia, etc.) have been used above to detail VannDa’s biography, achievements and significance . Each quote is linked to its source per instructions. No additional credible person named “Vaanda” was identified in the Cambodian public sphere. The references above cover the latest and most relevant information on these individuals.