Epos “Ural-Batyr” is presented to UNESCO

The Bashkir epos “Ural-Batyr” is planned to be presented to UNESCO in its headquarters. The Vice-Premier of the Government RB Zugura Rakhmatullina has made such proposal at the meeting with the delegation of the Russian Commission on UNESCO affairs. In opinion of the head of the delegation George Ordjonikidze this idea will meet no obstacles.

“From our side we will render assistance on presentation of the epos and signing the cooperation memorandum between Bashkortostan and UNESCO can be dated to this presentation” – he said.

Sugura Rakhmatullina has also offered to include the historical-architectural ensemble “Caravansary”, found on the territory of Orenburg region now, as well as the well-known Turk festival “Sabantuy” into the list of UNESCO cultural heritage. Gregory Ordjonikidze promised his support in promotion of “Caravansary” but idea should be developed jointly with Orenburg authorities. As for “Sabantuy”, the situation is more difficult because Russia is not a participant of the convent for preservation of non-material heritage.

“Our country doesn’t take part in the convent mainly because it isn’t yet quite clear what has to be considered the subject of this convent” – Gregory Ordjonikidze said – “This convent is of special difficulty for the countries with multi-religious and multinational population and as soon as we are not a participant of the convent, we can’t present the objects of non-material culture, which “Sabantuy” belongs to”.

At the same time even such situation has the way out of impasse in his opinion. “Sabantuy” is celebrated in many countries, including the countries – the participants of the convent, so Russia may offer these countries to promote this festival as an international nomination.