Maslenitsa Festival unites Oman, Russia in cultural celebration

Observer

09-03-2025

MUSCAT, March 9: The vibrant Maslenitsa Spring Festival, a spectacular celebration of Russian culture, concluded on a high note, captivating an audience of 20,000 at Al Mouj Muscat. The festival brought together Omanis and expatriates from diverse nationalities, offering a rich cultural exchange.
Aligned with Oman Vision 2040, the festival highlighted sustainability, creativity, and local entrepreneurship. It provided a platform for Omani SMEs to showcase their innovative products to a global audience. A grand fair featured authentic handmade products and souvenirs from both Oman and Russia, further enhancing cultural collaboration.
Organised by Russian House Oman and supported by the Ministries of Heritage and Tourism, Culture, Sports and Youth, as well as the Russian Ministry of Culture, the Government of St Petersburg, and the Russian Embassy, this year's festival marked the 40th anniversary of Oman-Russia diplomatic relations. It served as a fusion of both cultures, offering interactive activities for all ages.
Dignitaries such as Jamal bin Hassan al Mousawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum; Nasser al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat; and Ibrahim bin Saif Bani Oraba, Deputy General Manager for Arts at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, joined Russian Ambassador Oleg Levin and other officials, including Andrey Malyshev, Russia's Deputy Minister of Culture, and Nizami Mamyshev, Deputy Chair of the Committee of External Relations of St Petersburg, in celebrating this milestone event. Nearly 100 artists from Russia performed at the festival.
Speaking to Observer, Igor Egorov, Head of the Russian Community in Oman, emphasised the festival's role in strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.
"Maslenitsa was a festival for all residents of Oman, and we hope it deepened the cultural bond between our countries. The overwhelming response made this year's event truly special," he noted.
The festival presented a stunning mix of tradition and innovation, featuring performances by renowned Russian ensembles, including St Petersburg's 'Moroshka' Song and Musical Theatre and Dagestan's State Academic Dance Ensemble 'Lezginka.'
Visitors immersed themselves in Russian traditions by learning folk dances, dressing in traditional attire, and participating in cooking workshops, where they mastered the art of Russian pancakes and sweets. Hands-on activities included playing folk musical instruments and crafting iconic Russian Matryoshka dolls, Filimonovo toys, and gingerbread decorations, offering an interactive cultural experience.
Encouraged by the success of this year's festival, organisers have announced Maslenitsa as an annual event in Oman, with the next edition set for February 2026, promising an even grander celebration of culture, unity, and tradition.
"We are thrilled to make Maslenitsa a yearly tradition in Oman," said Anna Popova, Head of the Russian House Oman. "This year's event showcased the growing cultural exchange between Russia and Oman, and we look forward to bringing even more joy and traditions in 2026."
In addition to Al Mouj Muscat, Gates of Arabia, Levare, and Oman Oasis were key supporters of the cultural event.