Opinions & Interviews

SHKLOV DISTRICT, 4 July (BelTA) - Belarusian people cherish living folklore traditions, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said at the traditional celebration Kupalye (Alexandria Gathers Friends) on 4 July, BelTA has learned.

The head of state took part in the celebrations, attended the youth musical Paparat Kvetka (Fern Flower). When opening the celebration, Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that Belarusian people do not forget their songs, fairy tales, rites which have been passed from generation to generation for thousands of years. “It is our great legacy. This tradition is living as long as it takes something new from today. Every year the festival in Alexandria showcases the huge potential of the Belarusian traditional culture and offers vast opportunities for creative search,” the President noted.

Over the years of its existence, the festival welcomed many bands and singers from various countries, regions of Belarus. “Traditional folk art is the most democratic. It has a place for everyone who did his best to reach genuine mastery,” the President said.

The head of state noted that “folk art is close to everyone as it comes from people’s souls.” It is not accidental that the stage in Alexandria brings together renowned professional and amateur art groups, famous artists and children’s ensembles.

According to the President, “in the Year of Youth it is important to stress once again that young people should be given an opportunity to show their worth, it is important to support their abilities and undertakings.”

The first concert Alexandria Gathers Friends took place six years ago. “Who could think that today we will gather together to mark the sixth anniversary of the festival held on the bank of the Dnieper River, to see each other, to remember the past and outline future plans, and, what is especially important, to listen to a good song together,” the head of state said addressing the guests of the festival. “An ordinary concert has turned into a creative forum which is popular with not only Belarusian artists but also with artists from neighboring republics. I think that if we invited artists from remote countries, they would be happy to come to this wonderful place,” the President said.

“It is a good tradition to celebrate Kupalye in this wonderful place. It gives a special color to our ancient holiday. It takes place in the picturesque Belarusian landscape which includes Belarusian nature, culture, distant past and present. Everybody can see the works of Belarusian masters, taste Belarusian cuisine, listen to folk songs from various regions of Belarus here,” the President continued.

Alexandria embodies the spirit of cheerful feasts, generous fairs which welcome every guest; therefore, all those who have visited it once will always want to come back, the President added.

In addition, Alexander Lukashenko wished Happy Kupalye to all guests and expressed hope that this festival will be a bright and memorable event. “As the folk belief says, let the fern flower bring accord, wellbeing, happiness and love to your homes,” the head of state wished.