Project RuSu 365
Henri Cartier-Bresson said, "Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.", so bear with us...
A somewhat different take on the holidays. (12.23.2011)
Almost twenty years ago to the day, the USSR was dissolved. For some it was a triumph, for others a tragedy. Certainly it changed the lives of millions; for some better, for some worse. You may know that Marx considered religion, "the opium of the people", and during the Soviet period thousands of churches, temples and mosques were destroyed or used as dormitories or even granaries. Religious holidays were not celebrated by any confession. New Year's became the dominate holiday & people of all faiths put up 'yolkes' (fir trees) to celebrate the New Year. And what did they put on their trees? Well, amongst other more traditional ornaments, the hammer & sickle, of course :)
New Year's is still the most important holiday and to this day, people of all faiths put up trees. Ours is now up in honor of the New Year, but since it looks like a Christmas tree, I thought I'd post it today. The hammer & sickle ornament is from Rustem's childhood & I just can't deny him his childhood memories. The little snowman was made for me this year by Liza, the little girl whose photo I posted earlier this month.
I certainly hope no one takes offense. Wishing everyone a joyous holiday season & all the best in the coming year.
holiday fir treeyolkeёлкаNew Year treeChristmas treeornamentsигрушкиSoviet ornamenthammer sickle ornamentrusurusu photography
Julie
on December 31, 2011Ice maze? That is so cool.
sharkbayte
on December 25, 2011gorgeous colors and ornaments. I love learning about about Russian life and culture through you. Happy Holidays!
Janet McQueen
on December 24, 2011Lovely capture, Susan & your commentary is so very interesting. I'm so grateful for your glimpses into Russian culture & the diversity that we all have in our own little corners of the planet, thank you so much for sharing it with us with your words & your beautiful photographs.... :-))
photofreak
on December 24, 2011Interesting shot and history of your tradition. Now that people can choose to worship if they want to, do they, or is religion a thing of the past?
paulbellinger
on December 24, 2011Great story! Learning about diverse cultures is one of the many perks of the dailies! Happy holidays!
Gene Hyder
on December 24, 2011Wonderful shot.
Scianghetti
on December 24, 2011wonderful shot and so glad you shared it with us - love the commentary :)!
webstersway
on December 24, 2011Great shot, love the commentary!!!
ayushthetraveller
on December 24, 2011Good one....nice to know about this....isn't Easter also one of the biggest in Russia?
fotoeffects
on December 24, 2011Beautiful shot; I agree that it is wonderful to be able to learn about the traditions and customs of those in other countries.