As our Carpe Diem journey continues, the next stop is Ulan-Ude (Улан-Удэ), the capital of the Republic of Buryatia. It means we have a chance to celebrate New Year for the second time because it is the White Month in Buryatia. New Year there is celebrated also by the lunar calendar, next to the traditional New Year’ s Eve.
Time of Sagaalgan or Festival Of White Month varies, according to the solar calendar, but it always means a celebration that lasts whole month. There will be travelling from house to house to visit relatives, friends and neighbours, a special ritual of “burning sins” from the previous year, different ceremonies at local Buddhist temples, Shamanistic rituals, and appreciation of white food (any milk products and mutton) as a symbol of purity. Nowadays this holiday has become very popular and it is celebrated by all residents of Buryatia, regardless of their nationality and religion.
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beginning of road
old sins disappear in flames
spotless moon
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Ese' s Voice 
Very interesting… 🙂
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Thank you, Drake! There’ s always hope 🙂
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Sounds like a wonderful tradition of time with family and friends…and the ‘sin burning’ sounds most interesting.
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Yes, I did some more reading about those traditions and rituals today – really interesting. Had heard about before but just in general…so, today – discoveries 🙂
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I like the way you post now, immensely. A bit of background ( which I am almost never know about ), really helps in getting perspective!
Fascinating post. New year eve two times? Sounds fun 🙂
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Thank you, Tatsat, I am flattered 🙂 I think the Carpe Diem haiku journey through Siberia (that I really enjoy, must admit it!) has added more frequency and more specific shades to my haiku.
Yes, would be lovely to experience their traditions and rituals – even if it New Year, celebrated twice. 🙂
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Leaving the sins behind.. what a wonderful holiday.. then a new year with a clean slate.
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wew, i love the culture
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It’s so cool to read about this culture and your video makes it even cooler. Really a nice post with a nice haiku to conclude it. Thank you for sharing Ese.
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