- Title: BULGARIA: Traditional masked "Survakari" carnival brings in the New Year
- Date: 15th January 2010
- Summary: (SOUNDBITE) (Bulgarian) MASKED DRUMMER, GEORGI ALEXANDROV, SAYING: "We dance around bringing happiness, wishing for health and good luck during the New Year."
- Embargoed: 30th January 2010 12:00
- Keywords:
- Location: Bulgaria
- Country: Bulgaria
- Topics: Arts / Culture / Entertainment / Showbiz,Lifestyle
- Reuters ID: LVA2CD6D5VUAHXA9ZVH2QOH0XP1B
- Story Text: In the small Bulgarian town of Zemen folklore tradition is adhered to every January when the townsfolk take to the streets wearing wildly coloured outfits, beating drums and shaking large cow bells.
The masked carnival is based on a kind of ritual blessing for good health, fertility and well-being. Its origins date back to pagan times and the culture of the Thracian population of the Balkans and are associated with the transition from the old to the new year.
The symbolism is aimed at driving out the evil forces and spirits and pledging wishes for a plentiful harvest, good health and the fertility of people and farm animals.
Especially vivid are the "Survakari" masks and costumes from region west of Sofia. Traditions are well maintained in this area, with people preparing masks and costumes throughout the year for this day of celebration.
"We dance around bringing happiness, wishing for health and good luck during the New Year," said Georgi Alexandrov, a masked drummer from Zemen.
"I think this is all about chasing the evil spirits away from homes and people," explained Valentin, wearing a brightly coloured "Survakari" costume.
This tradition is much loved in the region and remains popular with people of all ages.
"This carnival has always been staged here, at this place, on the evening of January 13. Tomorrow is the old style New Year and Vasilovden. The masks and costumes are to chase away the evil spirits and start the New Year afresh - and this carnival runs every year," said Eli Manova, from Zemen.
In the nearby town of Lobosh a similar event takes place on January 13, which also brings dancing and raucous noise-making to the town's streets and squares. To complete the cacophony fireworks rain down from the sky.
Bulgarians will be hoping for a better year and a to put woes of the economic crisis behind them in 2010. - Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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