A gala concert for the republican ethnocultural festival “Our Home is Tatarstan” was held at the Jalil Opera and Ballet Theatre to mark Russia's National Unity Day. The event was attended by Head of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov, State Counsellor of Tatarstan and Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation Mintimer Shaimiev, Prime Minister of Tatarstan Alexey Pesoshin, and other officials.
In his address, Minnikhanov remarked that over four centuries ago, their ancestors united to repel foreign invaders. The people's militia, he noted, was composed of individuals of diverse origins and faiths, all bound together by their love for the Motherland.
“This unity is especially crucial at a time when Russia's enemies are attempting to divide our society and sow discord among peoples on national and religious grounds,” Minnikhanov emphasized. “And today, in Donbass, much like 80 years ago during the Great Patriotic War, our compatriots are defending the country's sovereignty and security, countering the threats of Nazism within the framework of the special military operation. The nationwide support for our service members and assistance to their families are the finest examples of our solidarity.”
He stated that the foundation of their values has always been, and remains, mutual respect for the languages, culture, and traditions of every people. Significant work in this area is carried out by the Assembly of the Peoples of Tatarstan, which brings together 270 organizations across the republic. This effort is further supported by the implementation of state programs, the development of a network of national cultural institutions, and the creation of conditions for folk ensembles to thrive. Close cooperation with the Muslim Religious Board, the Metropolis of the Russian Orthodox Church, and other confessions is also instrumental in strengthening spiritual and moral values.
“It has become a cherished tradition to hold the gala concert of the 'Our Home is Tatarstan' ethnocultural festival on National Unity Day,” Minnikhanov said. “I would like to express my gratitude to the organizers and all participants for their enthusiasm, love for their native culture, and their contribution to its promotion. I sincerely wish you all good health, well-being, and all the very best.”
Following his speech, Minnikhanov presented a series of state awards of Tatarstan in recognition of significant contributions to the ethnocultural development of the republic's peoples. Among the recipients were People's Artist of Tatarstan and Honored Artist of the Russian Federation Vladimir Fedotov, who was awarded the Order “For Merits to the Republic of Tatarstan” medal. Oleg Machin, a soloist at the Jalil Opera and Ballet Theatre, was named an Honored Artist of the Republic of Tatarstan. The honorary title “Honored Teacher of the Republic of Tatarstan” was conferred upon Natalya Antonova, a Udmurt language teacher, and Gayane Parvanyan, a Russian language and literature teacher. Minnikhanov also presented Certificates of Gratitude from the Head of the Republic and grants to support creative collectives.
The “Our Home is Tatarstan” festival has been held since 2012 with the goal of strengthening unity and fostering the spiritual enrichment of the peoples residing in the republic. Since 2014, by instruction of the Head of the Republic, the gala concert has been an integral part of the National Unity Day celebrations.
Over its 14-year history, the festival has involved more than 30,000 participants, with the number growing annually. A decade ago, the regional rounds featured an average of up to 200 creative groups representing the peoples of Tatarstan. In 2025, these rounds were held in the Apastovsky, Arsky, Leninogorsky, Mendeleevsky, Muslyumovsky, and Nurlatsky districts, as well as in Kazan, with a record 510 applications from municipalities and over 4,000 participants showcasing their talents.
In a related event, a religious procession dedicated to the veneration of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God was held in Kazan, with services taking place in Orthodox churches throughout the day.
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Photo: official website of the Rais RT
Based on materials from the Press Service of the Rais RT