RT President Mintimer Shaimiev address on occasion of ethnic Russian folklore festival «Karavon»

Dear compatriots! I would like to express my sincere congratulations with an important Russian ethnic festival of “Karavon”. “Karavon” festivities, just like those of ethnic Tatar “Sabantuy”, have special place among celebrations in the land of Tatarstan. We are proud to have been able to revive & bring increasing attention to them year after year, against positive changes taking place in our society. Large festival circle (хоровод) uniting people of different ethnic backgrounds from all over Tatarstan, as well as those coming from all over the country is growing bigger and bigger. This is why “Karavon” now took an important place among cultural events on the Federal level in Russia. Proud ethnic dresses of those making up circles of ancestral dancing and singing, meaningful words of the centuries-old folk songs – all this bring us back the spirit of the previous generations, fills our hearts with awe to the importance and meaning of life. “Karavon” is like an endless source of folk wisdom that fills all of us with living force, reminds us of the importance of love towards our fellow men, strengthens our aspirations to fairness, beauty & spirituality, brings together people of various ethnic & faith groups. I’m joyous to see hear more and more voices of children and youth in the joint singing of the festival – in front of our eye “Karavon” is turning into a family celebration. If wise centuries-old traditions of our forefathers persist, if our hearts are singing – then everything is fine with our people! My best wishes to all participants and guests of “Karavon” - health, well-being & happiness! Enjoy the festival!