The Russian Embassy in South Africa organised a film marathon ahead of Victory Day, screening films about World War II. On 7 May, this marathon culminated in a screening of the film "Five Brides" and a reception where diplomats, government officials and friends of Russia gathered to celebrate together the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War 1941-1945.
In his welcoming speech, Ambassador of the Russian Federation Roman Ambarov said that for Russia and the former Soviet republics, Victory Day is not just a date on the calendar, but a day of remembrance and national pride. "The sadness of this war remains imprinted in our genetic code," Ambarov said. He further said that 80 years ago, the world witnessed the end of a conflict that scarred continents, took millions of lives and changed the course of history forever. "The war took place on the streets, in the skies and in the hearts of our people. This victory came at a tremendous cost." In this war against Nazi Germany, the Soviet Union lost nearly 27 million soldiers and civilians.
In her speech, Dr. Gwen Ramokgopa, ANC Treasurer General, stressed the importance of reflecting on shared victories and the enduring responsibility for peace, justice and multi-polar cooperation. While previous films in the marathon told of the horrors of war, "Five Brides" sought to show a lighter side, a story of love, friendship, resilience and victory. The 2011 film, directed by Karen Oganesyan, revolves around the adventures of a young pilot, Alexei Kaverin, who is tasked with finding brides for his four young friends who remain stationed in Germany while he is sent on a mission to Smolensk. In a country where love and young men are in short supply, Kaverin successfully completes his mission amidst comical misunderstandings, new friendships, and finds love himself in the process.
Five Brides is a triumph of love, but it also highlights the futility of war and its devastating impact on ordinary lives. The evening included a musical performance by the talented Mamelodi Conservatory of Music ensemble, who gave a beautiful rendition of 'Blue Scarf', and singers from the Russian Embassy sang 'Victory Day'. Guests learned about the journeys of the young soldiers of the Soviet Republic through a photo exhibition, with a special tribute to the women who took part in the Great Patriotic War.
thediplomatic24.co/gnews.cz-jav
English 
Czech 
Spanish 
French 
Italian 
Russian 
Chinese 
German