Vienna, Austria—Europe’s only predominantly Buddhist region was the topic of a cultural event held at UPF offices.
The Kalmyks, a Mongolian people, are located in the Russian Republic of Kalmykia, near the Caspian Sea. They are the only group within the European borders whose language belongs to the Mongolian family and whose religion is Tibetan Buddhism. They have been keeping their Buddhist traditions to this day.
The February 28, 2019, meeting was initiated by KultEurasia, an association for cultural dialogue and cultural heritage of Eurasian indigenous peoples. The president of KultEurasia, Daniela Lieberwirth, introduced the activities of her organization.
Then the Kalmyk cultural scientist Chingis Azydov introduced us to the geography, history and culture of Kalmykia. He also presented two short films which showed how deeply Kalmykia’s culture and its people are rooted in Tibetan Buddhist traditions, which have been revitalized after the fall of communism.
Finally, Mr. Azydov performed traditional Kalmyk songs, accompanied by his friends, an Austrian and a Romanian musician.
On this evening more than 100 guests learned more about the ethnic minority group of the Kalmyks. At the same time they could connect to UPF and its activities.
To watch the video, click here.