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Evenki Festival Bakaldyn Unites Russia, China and Mongolia in Cultural Celebration

A rare gathering of Evenki communities from three nations revives ancient traditions. Can this festival preserve a language and culture on the edge of time?

The image shows a poster from the series Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido by Utagawa Kunisada...
The image shows a poster from the series Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido by Utagawa Kunisada Toyokuni III/Kunisada III. It depicts a group of people in traditional Japanese clothing, with a variety of animals, a chair, a table, and other objects in the foreground. In the background, there are mountains, trees, and a clear blue sky. At the bottom of the poster, there is text written in Japanese.

Evenki Festival Bakaldyn Unites Russia, China and Mongolia in Cultural Celebration

The international Evenki festival Bakaldyn will take place in Neryungri from June 18 to 20. This year’s event coincides with the 100th anniversary of the village of Iengra, a key centre for Evenki culture. Delegations from Russia, China and Mongolia will attend the celebrations. Iengra is known for preserving a rare Evenki-speaking community. The village has hosted previous festivals under the names Ikėnipkė and Huktyvun. Now, Neryungri will welcome participants for three days of cultural exchange.

The festival programme includes traditional rituals, live concerts, exhibitions and a business forum. These activities aim to showcase Evenki heritage while fostering connections between communities. Yakutia itself is home to 135 nationalities, with Evenki people living in nine of its municipal districts. Beyond Yakutia, the Evenki reside in compact groups across 10 Russian regions. In total, 70 settlements in 21 districts of the republic support Indigenous peoples of the North. The event highlights their enduring presence and cultural traditions.

The festival will bring together Evenki representatives from multiple countries. Through performances, discussions and shared traditions, it strengthens ties between dispersed communities. Organisers hope the centennial celebration will further raise awareness of Evenki identity and heritage.

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