DHAKA : The Russian House in Dhaka hosted a large-scale cultural celebration marking Russia Day, bringing together representatives of the Russian and Bangladeshi communities, students, alumni, cultural figures, and friends of Russia.

The event opened with remarks by Alexandra Khlevnoy, Director of the Russian House in Dhaka, who spoke about the historical significance of Russia Day, the cultural diversity of the Russian Federation, and the importance of international cultural dialogue in strengthening mutual understanding between nations.

The audience was also addressed by Vyacheslav Sentyurin, Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Bangladesh, who highlighted the longstanding friendship between Russia and Bangladesh and emphasized the role of cultural and humanitarian cooperation in further developing bilateral relations.

The official program included a multimedia presentation introducing modern Russia, showcasing the country’s natural heritage, scientific and technological achievements, and cultural traditions.

The central part of the celebration was a concert performed by the *Folk Song and Dance Ensemble “Alabuga” of the Yelabuga College of Culture and Arts (Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation) *. Through a diverse repertoire of Russian and Tatar folk songs, instrumental compositions, and choreographic performances, the ensemble presented the rich cultural heritage of the peoples of Russia.

The concert featured performances by renowned musicians, including Razil Gabbasov, who demonstrated traditional folk instruments, and Dilyara Mirovaeva, Honored Artist of the Republic of Tatarstan.

The cultural exchange component of the event was enriched by performances from “Happiness,” a children’s dance group composed of children of Bangladeshi graduates of Soviet universities. Their presentation of traditional Bengali dances symbolized the strong people-to-people ties that have connected Russia and Bangladesh for decades.

Representatives of the Russian compatriot community in Bangladesh also participated in the program, presenting a recital of the song-poem “I Gaze at the Blue Lakes” and a dance performance to the traditional Russian song “Korobeiniki.”

A special segment of the program was dedicated to the Republic of Tatarstan, introducing guests to its cultural traditions and to Kazan, one of Russia’s leading educational and cultural centers.

Following the concert, guests participated in a Russia Day cultural fair and visited two exhibitions. The exhibition “Multicultural Russia” introduced visitors to the diverse peoples and traditions of the Russian Federation, while “Pristine Russia”  showcased the country’s unique natural landscapes and wildlife.

The fair also featured matryoshka painting workshops, a Russian-themed photo zone, souvenir displays, traditional refreshments, and a range of interactive cultural activities.

The celebration demonstrated the growing interest in Russian culture in Bangladesh and reaffirmed the importance of cultural cooperation as a foundation for strengthening the friendship and partnership between the two countries.