"In all countries, culture lies at the foundation of the state" — People’s Artist Nadezhda Babkina

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On 12 September, the draw of the participating countries of the International Music Contest "Intervision" took place at the National Centre RUSSIA. The ceremony was attended by artists and creative groups from more than twenty countries.

People’s Artist Nadezhda Babkina highlighted the importance of the event and stressed that the contest carries an important cultural and spiritual mission:

"This contest is returning after many years of absence and is finally being held for the first time — this is wonderful. Different peoples from different countries have gathered. They are presenting their culture. Because culture in all countries, including Russia, has always been at the foundation of the state. And how it develops depends on time," said Nadezhda Georgievna. "There was the 20th century, now it is the 21st. There are new technologies, changes are taking place, and that is wonderful. But the main thing is that the meaning remains. The meaning of one’s tradition, one’s customs and rituals. And this must be treated with respect, not simply like: ‘If I do not understand, it means it is not interesting.’ It is very interesting to learn more than you expect about other countries, other peoples, their culture, their traditions. This is wonderful!"

According to Nadezhda Babkina, "Intervision" is aimed at spirituality and nationality, and at demonstrating the diversity of cultures and arts of different countries.

"For us it was a great honour to open the very beginning of 'Intervision'. Russia is welcoming guests, and we came out in Russian traditional, ethnographic costumes. We wanted to say to the guests: ‘Hello, rejoice in the success of others.’ This is very important. In my view, the important thing is not the very fact of winning, pushing everyone aside to strive for victory. No. In the first place, it is to take part in the event, and in the second, to feel unity, when we all come together in a great, amazing spiritual connection," the artist stressed.

Nadezhda Babkina also noted the symbolism of holding the draw at the National Centre RUSSIA:

"I believe that in life there are no coincidences at all. First of all, Russia is welcoming guests. And why not continue this story in such a centre as the National Centre RUSSIA? The draw will take place. But just look at how happy they are, how they cry out with admiration for one another. The very beginning already evokes kindness and good human feelings. When people are happy for each other."

Each country will prepare a song that reflects its national traditions, history and culture. The main genre will be pop music, however contestants are free to include ethnic and folk elements in their compositions. The songs were chosen by the countries themselves, but the obligatory requirement was their recognition in their homeland.

The winner will be determined by an international jury, and the main prize will amount to 30 million roubles. The final of "Intervision-2025" is scheduled for 20 September.

This year, representatives of 23 countries from Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas and the Middle East have confirmed their participation in the contest. The contestants include renowned artists and new names that have already gained popularity in their homeland. Russia will be represented at the contest by popular singer Shaman (Yaroslav Dronov) with the song "Right Through the Heart".