White Elder from the Sayan Mountains arrived at the RUSSIA EXPO
Ded Moroz from Buryatia — Sagaan Ubgen — resembles our usual winter wizard only in appearance. The same white beard, white hat, long white robe with ornaments, belted with a sash, and a staff in his hands.
However, the White Elder, i.e. Sagaan Ubgen, is actually a Buddhist deity — the guardian of life and longevity. He is considered a symbol of the New Year and has been worshipped for 2.5 thousand years.
One of the elements of the wizard’s unusual attire, in addition to the magical staff with the dragon-shaped tip, are rosary beads, which the elder wears around his neck. Grandfather shared the secret of their magical meaning with the visitors of the holiday: "There are 108 rosaries in total. For Buddhists the number 108 is a sacral number!".
The series of the winter wizards' visits to the Exposition started on November 18 with the birthday celebration of the most famous Ded Moroz, who lives in Veliky Ustyug. On December 23, guests of the RUSSIA EXPO were greeted by winter folklore heroes from Chuvashia and Mari El — Hel Muchi and Yushto Kugyza.
Young participants of the workshop "Modelling — a Prototype with Your Own Hands," held on May 31 at the National Centre RUSSIA.
The history of Russian architecture, bold concepts, and Soviet urban planning projects realised across the globe were presented to delegations of the exposition on May 31.
The award ceremony for the winners of the All-Russian video essay contest "Dreams of the Future" will take place at the National Centre RUSSIA on June 1, International Children's Day.
