Tatarstan is exploring the potential inclusion of the Sabantui holiday on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. This news surfaced at a meeting of the State Council of the Republic of Tatarstan’s Committee on Education, Culture, Science, and National Issues.

Danis Shakirov, Deputy Head of the Executive Committee of the World Congress of the Tatars, stated, “We are actively working towards this goal. There are certain legal aspects to consider, but we are searching for a solution. We will keep you informed of our progress.”

Yulia Adgamova, First Deputy Minister of Culture of the Republic of Tatarstan, confirmed that plans remain to include Sabantui in the federal register of ethno-cultural heritage.

“Experts have already conducted an evaluation,” she noted. “Regarding UNESCO inclusion, this matter has been extensively discussed with the World Congress of the Tatars. It is being considered as a potential proposal and option.”

Adgamova further explained the obstacle: Russia has not yet ratified the UNESCO convention on intangible heritage.

The question of Sabantui’s UNESCO inscription was raised by MP Liliya Mavrina, who inquired, “Are there any plans to apply for inclusion of a festival or holiday, such as Sabantui, on the UNESCO intangible heritage list? Sabantui is celebrated worldwide.”

Source: tatar-inform.tatar