In the last days of February, winter is gradually leaving us, giving way to spring sunshine and warmth. This long-awaited moment is accompanied by bright and joyful holidays, one of which is Maslenitsa. For BNTU this holiday is a tradition, which from year to year unites students, teachers and staff at Maslenitsa festivities.
Let's turn to history. Maslenitsa is one of the most ancient holidays of the Slavic people. In some regions of Belarus it is called differently: Maslenka, Syrnitsa. It never had a definite date in the calendar: it was celebrated eight weeks before Easter. The great advantage of this holiday is that it lasts a whole week.
Since ancient times, there have been many different rituals on Maslenitsa. Our ancestors believed that on Maslenitsa week it was possible to work during the day, and the evenings were reserved only for entertainment. At this time, everyone went to visit, games were organised in villages, young people rode on sledges, swings, horses.
Today, February 28, a real Maslenitsa celebration took place near the main building of the Belarusian National Technical University.
- Hey, honest people,
Don't go away from us!
Come to us quickly,
We have delicious pancakes!
With honey, they're sweet!
We're welcoming Maslenitsa,
We are seeing off winter, - festival participants were greeted by presenters.
The event was opened by a bright performance of the folk song ensemble “Kahanachka” of the Department of Cultural Affairs of BNTU.
Then there was a quiz, during which the participants learnt a lot of interesting things about Maslenitsa. For example, that pancakes on the holiday symbolise the spring sun, that the scarecrow on Maslenitsa is made of straw and it means the passing of winter, and the traditional attribute of women's clothes on Maslenitsa is a colourful scarf.
Contests were prepared for all comers “Braid weaving”, “Broom”, “Hot pan”, “Wheel of fortune”, where the participants were offered to show agility, speed, test their strength and find out who will be richer this year. The winners were not left empty-handed: everyone received prizes from the PA “BRYU” with the rights of the RK.
The participants of the celebration were not left hungry either. Watching the colorful performances, the audience at the site could eat delicious crepes.
We thank the Youth Union of BNTU and the Department of Cultural Affairs for the organization of such a bright celebration. We congratulate everyone on Maslenitsa!
