On July 12, Vitebsk / Diana Kurilo – BELTA /. The "Buranovskiye Babushki" (Buranovo Grannies) are ready to sing anything they are asked to at "Slavyansky Bazaar". This was stated by the venerable artists as soon as they stepped onto the platform of the Vitebsk railway station. Along with other distinguished guests, they arrived at the festival early this morning to take part in the grand opening concert, as reported by the BELTA correspondent who met them. This is the "Buranovskiye Babushki's" first visit to Belarus. However, as one of the group members, Granya Baisarova, admitted to the BELTA correspondent: "We have already managed to feel the love of Belarusians – they are giving us such a warm welcome here." Indeed, as soon as the participants stepped onto the platform of the Vitebsk railway station, they immediately found themselves in the spotlight of everyone present at the station at that moment, as it is impossible to pass by such grannies indifferently. Despite spending the night on the train, the early morning, and, frankly, their age, they looked wonderful: in matching dresses, tied with aprons, as is customary in the formation of the Udmurt costume, the grannies from the village of Buranovo could have given a lesson in style and etiquette to many young artists. But the main distinguishing feature of the "Buranovskiye Babushki" is their sincerity and love for life. "They didn't sing on the train, but they exude such energy that it makes you want to sing yourself," admitted the attendant of carriage No. 11, in which the "Eurovision" prize-winners travelled. "We will sing 'Party For Everybody' at the opening of 'Slavyansky Bazaar', and whatever else they ask for. We know many songs," said Granya Baisarova. "We couldn't miss coming to Belarus, especially since the Belarusians gave us 12 points at Eurovision, and we are grateful for that," added Olga Tuktareva, the artistic director of the "Buranovskiye Babushki" ensemble. Before the concert, the guests intend to explore Vitebsk and possibly buy some souvenirs. "We are relying on the help of the organizers, as we are only in Vitebsk for one day," added Olga Tuktareva. For several years now, Europe has been experiencing a boom – a fashion for folklore. There are no analogues to the "Buranovskiye Babushki" in show business today. None of the specialists can give a clear definition of the style or genre in which the grannies sing. But one thing is certain – the ethnic project "Buranovskiye Babushki" has generated interest not only in Russia but also worldwide. Japanese journalists have made a report about the grannies, Finnish television is preparing a major program, and RTR is shooting a music video. -0-

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