Mintimer Shaimiev took part in Russian folklore festival “Karavon”

Tatarstan President Mintimer Shaimiev visited Laishevo District of the republic and participated in the jubilee festivities of Russian folklore “Karavon” in Russkoye Nikolskoye village on May 26.

History of “Karavon” celebration in Nikolskoye is more than 300 years old. It is dated to the village holiday – the day of Nicolas Miracle-maker.

Nikolskoye Russkoye citizens met the head of Tatarstan with bread and salt. Folklore groups accompanied Mintimer Shaimiev and other distinguished guests – RT Vice Premier – Minister of Culture Zilya Valeeva and the head of Laishevo District Alexander Timofeev.

The solemn ceremony of “Karavon” took place on the central square. Alexander Timofeev made a greeting speech. According to his words, 75 creative groups from all over the republic and also from Nizhniy Novgorod, Mariy El and Chuvashia came to the festival. “It is not just a festivity, - A. Timofeev pointed out. – “Karavon” has become an event of all-republican scale”.

Tatarstan President also made a speech at the ceremony. “I’d like to say words of gratitude to residents of Russkoye Nikolskoye village who have preserved Russian folklore traditions,” he noted. According to his words, folk songs can touch soul. “We should save them and pass them from generation to generation. Old Slavic speech reveals condition of soul, - Mintimer Shaimiev emphasized. – I pay particular attention to it as this year is announced the Year of Russian language in Russia”.

The President handed over a certificate for 1 million rubles to Russian Centre Folklore Director of MF Kazan executive committee Board on Culture, Alexander Smirnov for purchase of audio and video recording equipment and Niva car. Each female participant of the folklore ensemble received bright necklace from the President.