Is this Europe?! Celebrating the New Year in Kalmykia

This is a Buddhist republic in the heart of Europe. On arrival here, you can't believe what you see: Buddhist temples, pagodas, Asian gates and buildings. This region has a truly unique culture, traditions and holidays, and this time I will celebrate the Kalmyk ZUL holiday with locals, and... add one year to my age along with all Kalmyk people.
Time codes:
00:00 I'm going to celebrate the New Year with Kalmyks!
01:17 Welcome to the capital: Elista city
02:46 What did I find on the Lenin Square?
04:26 My chance to make a wish under the Golden Gate
05:47 Here is a Kalmyk lunch!
09:30 Is this really Europe?!
11:25 Locals came to get blessings from lamas
12:31 It's the New Year's Day in Kalmykia
16:47 A ritual of life prolongation
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• Life in Russia's COLDE... - Life in Russia's COLDEST CITY - Yakutsk | Yakut habits, heatwave(-35 C°)
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[@ElifromRussia]

It’s January 7th and today it’s a Christmas Day in Russia, so Merry Christmas everyone! We just celebrated the New Year on December 31 in Russia, but I also celebrated the New Year on December 7th with Kalmyk people! There were so many traditions and rituals that I’ve never done before, so I made a video about this special event :) And here you can watch more videos of mine where I explain the Russian culture 👉🏻kzbin.info/aero/PLeQTCVW4juG8wDADr0OqmPLnv1mfnoYkr

[@wishfulthinking1507]

This was brilliant Eli !! infact all your vids are so comprehensive and interesting, thank you so much and Merry Christmas ❤

[@taasmr4203]

*Russian men never fuck around with Black African, Indian, Italian, Pakistani Punjabi, Pakistani Pashtun, Pakistani Kashmiri, and North American and South American Hispanic girls then why do Russian girls fuck around with Black, Indian, Italian, Pakistani Punjabi, Pakistani Pashtun, Pakistani Kashmiri, and North American and South American Hispanic men?*

[@martinnielsen5805]

Merry Christmas 🙂

[@cmconley33]

Merry Christmas, Eli!

[@user-vr6lp2oy8m]

Merry Christmas beloved Elina!!!🎄💖

[@haroldcruz8550]

Having a tour in Russia is like having a tour of the entire world except everyone you meet can speak Russian

[@user-wt7ff6ot3h]

Могут. Потому что нужен общий язык для общения всех со всеми. Но на самом деле в России больше ста государственных языков. И каждый из них является законным для делопроизводства и юридических дел.

[@binichaufzack1]

1984 Yeah and plz add those two brilliant Films too for those who can not read in Russia and belarus. Btw the first one is forbidden in Russia. Any idea why ? 1. : kzbin.info/www/bejne/ooSkaKB3fdSfd9k 2. : kzbin.info/www/bejne/naWceZ6FYsh6fdE&pp=ygUJZGFyayBjaXR5

[@darkmatter5424]

They just need an African "republic". 😅

[@siyacer]

​@@darkmatter5424they have Wagner for that

[@mitchyoung93]

@@siyacer I literally LOLLed

[@yuligab1493]

Eli, thank you for your videos! I am myself Tatar from Ural, living in Moscow. Watching your videos and feeling so overwhelmed at how diverse and different our country - Russia.

[@Proud_to_be_Slav]

Ох как классно Эли не говорит по русски и вы 😂 Я х;;;ею

[@yuligab1493]

@@Proud_to_be_Slav most of the Eli's subscribers are foreigners and I write in English out of respect for them. Your cursing is not necessary. Being so rude especially in Russian doesn't favor us, Russian citizens. Besides people in Russia speak various languages and you insisting on Russian is very racist!

[@Proud_to_be_Slav]

@@yuligab1493 чаВо ? 🤣

[@robstewich]

@@Proud_to_be_Slav Он говорит, что пишет на английском, чтобы подписчики канала понимали о чём речь) Из уважения к ним) Вообще Эли обвиняют на Западе в том, что она пропагандистка и работает на Путина, потому что не осудила войну на Украине, рассказывает какая Россия хорошая страна, а ведь все знают что русские - это дикари, и хорошего в России ничего нет (сарказм). И если ты русский и не срёшь на свою страну, то тебе точно платит Путин😁Про неё есть целое расследование даже.

[@M.lizz1]

​​@@yuligab1493don't worry I noticed some Russians are trolls in the comments

[@Nish_18]

As a Buddhist from Sri Lanka, It's great to see a Buddhist republic in Russia!

[@AlexanderTch]

Russia has another Buddhist republic - Republic of Buryatia. And I guess more Buddhists live there.

[@1966Gleb]

We have 4 main denominations in Russia - Orthodox, Muslim, Buddhist and Jewish. And representatives of all these faiths have their own Republics, and Jews too. But these people can live in Russia, anywhere. The feelings of believers in our country are protected by the Law of the Russian Federation. In Russia, they say this: Do not kick someone else's faith, do not scold other people's temples, and then you will not be with a hunchbacked soul. Happy New Year to you, and greetings from a Muslim from Moscow)

[@vitordelima]

@@1966Gleb Hunchbacked soul? I know a crime against humanity related to this and it was done by a religious cult.

[@napoleonfeanor]

@1966Gleb You mean main religions and I don't think Jewish is still a part of that. There are probably more people following shamanist/animist nature religions nowadays. Denomination is the term used for different sects of Christians, not sure if it also applies to the subdivisions of other religions. You being a Muslim, have you ever heard it describing the divisions within it? I hope Russia's different religions will keep inner peace. Russia must be cautious when foreign entities want to build Mosques as the militant, violent preachers usually come from or were educated in certain countries known for radicalism and oil money.

[@vitordelima]

@@napoleonfeanorThere were many documented problems with mafias, governments, militias and spies using religion as a cover up in the past and this is more than enough to paranoid about them.

[@MatveyGordeev663]

Мы Буддисты России желаем всем мира в новом году и всегда🎉

[@bluekids5622]

Greeting From Bali island 🏝️☕ Hindu Island in Indonesia

[@homealone1607]

Amazing Russia sounds like a wonderland with all these multicultural Russian ethnicities.

[@user-qw2oh4zq1h]

Yes, Ukraine and part of Poland will be part Russia too. Russian is a culture of harmony and unity. Unlike USA and Europe embraced Nazicism and Judaism.

[@M.lizz1]

Indeed

[@greatjoeblack2202]

And everyone has its own land and respect

[@alan_1213]

It looks good here because these people live isolated by themselves for a reason. Try to go to Moscow or other russian cities, hate, racism is everywhere.

[@asynchronicity]

Yes. Leave other sovereign nations alone, please.

[@hrep14]

Wow, never knew this place existed. You keep surprising us at just how diverse Russia really is and how very distinct each region's customs, language etc... are being preserved. It's just like being in another unexplored world. 👍👍👍

[@xalekcey]

Russia now wants to build such a new World on the same principle. Today, Russia is the architect of the new World and is building it in its own image. A world in which different cultures, countries, regions retain their identity, but all live together and amicably. This is fundamentally different from Western philosophy.

[@DanaLalevee]

Agreed! This is why I adore this channel. I’m learning so much.

[@chjadam]

@@xalekcey .. fundamentally different from Western philosophy? What an ignorant nonsense only brainwashed people can spread. Better look at the European Union with its many languages and cultural diversity and think twice. Btw, does Russia has a Court of Justice to defend the human right of speaking out freely what you think? And if the new world of Russiaŝ new world will look like how Bakhmut or Marinka is looking now: Thank you very much for this lovely present, , but it does not really look like Russia has built a convincing image of living together amicably. What you can see there is fundamentally different from Western philosophy indeed.

[@maxim_factor]

@@xalekcey дружно у нас точно не живут, достаточно посмотреть криминальную хронику "многонационала", ненависть растёт. Причём власти не реагируют на эту угрозу, думают что пронесёт. Опять наступают на одни и те же грабли, всё это уже проходили в этнических конфликтах конца 80-х годов в СССР. Да и какой "новый мир" может построить вымирающий народ? Демография в России на уровне плинтуса + эмиграция коренного населения и параллельная миграция в страну крайне наглых чужаков. Новый мир будут строить таджикские блогеры и сын Кадырова? С таким "новым миром" соседи вроде китайцев вряд ли будут уважать, забитых (в России даже цыгане угрожают русским убийствами) никто не уважает.

[@xalekcey]

@@maxim_factor Ну в этом и твоя проблема, что вы мир вокруг воспринимаете через криминальные новости и выстраиваете эти ложные образы ту себя в голове. Я только сам хотел в шутку предложить - "посмотри криминальные новости по нтв и скажи как мы живем", а ты сам это сказал и сделал)). Это как видеть мир вокруг себя через криминальные новости)). ...бля... вокруг одни убийства, изнасилования, коррупция...аааа!!!!!)))) Но реальный мир гораздо шире и совсем другой. При чем тут "новый мир" и демография? Кстати за последние 8 лет Россия приросла как минимум еще с 10 млн русскими людьми)) А сама по себе Россия, это многонациоальная страна, целая цивилизация , в рамках которой веками мирно и дружно живут многие народы, с различными языками, культурами и религиями. Ну а вы нацики урок 80ых и 90ых не усвоили.. Вы их продукт и продолжаете мыслить всё в той же разрушительной парадигме. При чем неважно, нацик русский, украинский или любой другой мс просторов СНГ ... у вас одна суть, вы продукт того самого распада империи и не более того. Вы продукт и причина одновременно. Благо власти страны, тот кто принимает решения, не подвержены этой разрушительной идеологии и смотрят на мир реально, прекрасно понимая всю суть России и Русского мира.

[@danielanusiem-nzenwa8535]

Merry Christmas Eli. I pray that Russia's culture and traditions be preserved by all means possible, for more millennia to come. We as Africans due to our corrupt leaders, are already losing and have lost our traditions to a certain imposing civilization, so please Mother Russia should do all she can to preserve hers. She will someday replenish the earth and restore humanity to all mankind, as a mother of civilizations indeed.

[@danielanusiem-nzenwa8535]

@@freedomvoice8883 MAYBE YOU SHOULD LOOK OUT THESE DAYS, AMERICA DRAWS TO THE SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST WITH THEIR LIPS BUT THEIR HEARTS ARE WAY WAY FAR AWAY FROM THE SAVIOR. LOOK IN THE MIRROR. THERE IS A REASON WHY MANY OTHER GOVERNMENTS ARE NOW STEERING AWAY FROM THE US AND IT'S FOREIGN POLICIES. LEARN TO RESPECT OTHER PEOPLE'S CULTURES AND DIFFERENCES. THIS IS THE MORAL LESSON OF THIS VIDEO FOR OTHER COUNTRIES WITH DIVERSITY TO LEARN FROM. PRIDE GOES BEFORE A FALL AND CIVILIZATIONS LIKE THAT OF AMERICA END UP FALLING UNLESS THEY REPENT AND SERVE THE LORD IN TRUE SPIRIT AND TRUTH RATHER THAN WITH THEIR LIPS ALONE. HISTORY NEVER LIES.

[@ashamer7776]

​I respect your opinion but please don't tell lies. The USA has a Christian foundation but it is not Christian anymore, let's be honest about it. Also, the reason people go to the USA is for money, not Christianity.

[@danielanusiem-nzenwa8535]

@@ashamer7776 Thank you. They know this but are intentionally being oblivious to the truth. Only those who have lived know very well how it is.

[@misantos847]

@@freedomvoice8883😂😂😂😂😂😂😂👿👿big lie little devil( the big lie American dream ) reality corruption and exploitation

[@mracer8]

China is the best country in the world!@@danielanusiem-nzenwa8535

[@Aurpon]

I was pleasantly surprised when I first heard about Kalmykia . A Buddhist majority republic in European Russia. Thanks for showing us their heritage & culture. I really enjoyed the video. A Buddhist subscriber from Bangladesh🇧🇩.

[@vnmayhem5368]

One day at work my boss said we had two new employees from Russia. Later on I saw a couple guys standing around and asked if they were lost. They were Asian and started speaking with a heavy Russian accent. I was OHH you're the new Russian guys. They said they were from Kalmykia and that they all looked like this LOL.

[@SvetlanaVoikova]

😆

[@anettemor1730]

sorry to bring that. but multi-culturalism and equality of nations, self-ruling for each nation is WHAT the war in Ukraine is about. Ukraine too has many ethnic group but all local cultures other than Ukranians (who are just 1/3 of all locals), are BANNED, no schooling allowed, no self-governing. and they call Russians - not real slavs. because we mix and because we see others as EQUAL and each land belonging to natives. Now there are endless attacks on Russia dreaming it desintegrates into hundreds states hating each other. but WE DO NOT HATE, we love the difference. we proud of each our part and we feel a lot stronger by being different, learning each other wisdom and cherishing both history and the special look at human path. all Eurasian traditions blend well because they are PEACEFUL and respectful towards each other and none put above others.

[@user-cy2gt7bd4u]

Я русский но на 12% я калмык. Один мой прадед был калмыком. Так что с новым годом братья калмыки! Ну и с рождеством русские братья!

[@user-cy2gt7bd4u]

@@peterhylten8930 этого не будет. Калмыки империалисты ничуть не хуже русских. В прошлом калмыки это один из символов русского империализма. Как казаки. Воевали за Россию.

[@thesol1063]

​@@peterhylten8930 imperialism is a western and european phenomenon, in Russia all nations and substate entities are equal and live in friendship, I myself and everyone I know do not want our native republic to be disconnected from Russia, we feel home with the russians in Russia, we have gone through all of modern history side by side side, into fire and water, into hunger and illness. Please, stop deciding for us how we should live, while sitting on the couch far from Russia, knowing nothing about it. We preserve our culture here, being part of Russian culture, without falling out of the modern world and without sliding into the Middle Ages, this is only possible thanks to the Russians

[@PeppieP]

What a beautiful republic within Russia. Russia is such a large country and holds so many different cultures within it but all still are part of Russia. Perhaps one day we can visit all these wonderful places you have shown us. Thanks for sharing Eli x

[@vicktorerenjenov3508]

Зул 1.Мы, калмыки, потомки джунгарских ойратов Просветленному Будде поклоняемся Светлыми праздниками богом дарованными Торжествуя душой благословляемся. 2.В зул возжигаем мы сотни лампадок Умиротворяя предстоящие зимние невзгоды В степенной беседе за щедрым застольем Желаем друг другу счастья, здоровья. 3.Всем близким желаем жить долго и радостно Чтоб не знавали они горестных дней Чтоб зул-лампадка всегда освещала Дорогу к весне среди зимних ночей. 4.Будда великий внемлет нашим молитвам Людям даруя мечты воплощение Пусть зимовье проходит без тягот, лишений День за днём приближая весны наступление. С праздником Зул! ❄🪔🐉

[@khunmikeon858]

Wow Eli, that’s fascinating to find a Buddhist republic beside the Caspian Sea. I’m an Irishman in Thailand surrounded by Buddhist culture. I never knew about Kalmykia. It’s just like Thailand except the snow 😂😂 Luv your podcasts about the people and places of the Russia Federation. 👏👏 🇮🇪💚🇷🇺💚🇹🇭

[@yeontatayeontata580]

Another Russia buddhist republic is Buryatia in Seberia.

[@leadharsh0616]

@@yeontatayeontata580 well it borders mongolia so its more of an extension of the mongol realm unlike kalmykia being so far

[@Go4Broke247]

Siberians are Asians.

[@leadharsh0616]

@@alexeyvlasenko6622 that's true indeed

[@user-dh6bj2me5p]

Eli presents a boatload of Russian culture. More than I never knew. She's an educator and a delight.

[@americanjaybird]

Watching your videos has made me want to learn Russian! It's such a beautiful language. Hopefully one day I could read Tolstoy in his native Russian! That would be so cool ❤ stay safe out there!!!

[@user-wt7ff6ot3h]

Толстой сложен, многословен и занудный. Читайте Достоевского и Чехова.

[@EinZweiDreiVier]

А ну Достоевского конечно осилит, да да Не несите бред😊@@user-wt7ff6ot3h

[@treyatecus]

This is amazing to me!! I came across your channel about 2 months ago. I've been watching all your videos! I never knew that Russia was so diverse! I'm so impressed with your country. I'm happy I stumbled onto your channel !

[@vaughansamuelson6552]

It is good to see that the Kalmyk people are able to preserve their traditions. Another fascinating video, thank you.

[@naturalexplorer]

I am delighted the Buddhist temples and statues proliferate in Kalmykia. Made me think of the sorrow I felt to what happened to the Buddhist statues in Afghanistan. It is now clear the ancient distribution of Buddhism, the cultures that were involved with it, stretched strongly westward. The daily involvement with it in Kalmykia fantastic.

[@fuadahmed966]

Nice to see the beautiful cultural and religious diversity from the Russian federation. It's just an amazing presentation of Buddhism and the local lifestyle. ❤ from Sylhet Bangladesh.

[@liqiz1755]

looks like dhaka 🎉

[@yourgopnikcomrade]

And to those Russians who are Christian : Merry Christmas today 🎆 !

[@user-li6bw9rn1z]

Eli, thanks for showing us how amazingly diverse Russia is! 😊

[@mongworld9064]

I really want to visit this place as a Buddhist from India....

[@technobo06]

Astonishing to learn that Russia have so many cultures that few people know, and i am one of them. Thank you for opening my eyes in these wonderful things about Russia, wish you well my beautiful teacher.😍😋🤩😛

[@justthesun]

in Russia we know))

[@francescocursio4523]

Hi Eli! I too must admit that it is surprising that in Russia there is a place and a people that has oriental culture and characteristics. In fact it seems to be in an Asian country. Elista seems to be an out of place capital but it is beautiful with its temples, pagodas, stupas and it is incredible that there is a celebration where everyone turns one year older on the same day and together and on the seventh of December the New Year is celebrated. 😃 The food you presented to us looks very good and I already want to eat it. 🤤🤤 I also find it absurd that the Dalai Lama has been banned from Russia and especially from a place where he should be present at least from a religious point of view both for a spiritual question and to accompany that part of the faithful who are devoted to him. The people you interviewed give the impression that they are very welcoming and warm and, above all, it is surprising that a part of the Mongolian people is found and lives in European Russia. 😃 The wonder of Russia is precisely that it is very varied in places, people and their cultures and traditions. 🤩 Thank you for letting us discover and get to know this wonderful place that deserves to be visited. Greetings and a hug. 😊

[@justthesun]

we have many asian nationalities in Russia

[@francescocursio4523]

Logically because Russia is divided into European Russia and Asian Russia.

[@justthesun]

@@francescocursio4523 for Russians it's not devided

[@francescocursio4523]

Yes I know! Mother Russia is all united but has a European and an Asian part.

[@paulmyers1410]

Great stuff as usual. Russia with ALL its distinct people and cultures, in conjunction with a vast array of landscapes really has it all. Can't wait to see it one day soon. All the best from England.

[@natyrusa]

Welcome here one day!

[@454FatJack]

Just 1/3 kalmuk people perished in 1943 Stalin mass deportation’s. Empty home’s filled with Russian’s❤ Z people 2024 in 🇺🇦. 1200 years Mongol Moscovite way😢

[@helenscoffield]

Russia is full of wonderful countries and gorgeous people! You will spend your life trying to gather it all in your channel for us Eli! May true love, good things to eat when you are hungry, and a safe warm place welcome you every day dear. Merry Christmas ! Merry Zul!

[@chuckkottke]

The only region in Europe where Buddhism is the predominant religion ☯️! 😊.

[@mikekeefe9330]

There is no way me living here in Florida would have any idea how Russians live. THANK YOU!

[@opensamentododia4499]

Eu amo a Rússia❤🇷🇺 A diversidade étnica da Rússia é impressionante!

[@someflower795]

Very interesting. I had no idea of Kalmykia. I have couple of times noticed a mention of "kalmuks" in some historical novels and understood them to be some Asian group of people. But I knew nothing more! This was very interesting. Native Buddhists in a cold European area - thank you so much for educating us! We know absolutely too little about Russia.

[@SoupHack]

Merry Christmas from Odessa

[@aaaa.7897]

Russia is so beautiful and naturally diverse. I've wanted to go to Hulhuta (Хулхута) since Bald & Bankrupt showed that place in a nice sunny day a few years ago. :)

[@diyg5854]

Happy new year Eli and everyone. Thanks Eli for showing a lot of the culture and people of the Russian Federation. Please continu posting those videos. Greatings from a great fan from the Netherlands. 😊

[@Lasjrw]

Happy NEW YEAR 😊

[@henryleroux8768]

Voorspoedige nuwe jaar .

[@user-anadgob]

Спасибо, и вас с новым годом! Gelukkig nieuwjaar!

[@rusta3210]

Яна ел белэн!

[@sofiapapamixali6127]

Your channel is like a school for us)))it's incredible how much we learn through you🥰 thank you for this))greetings from Greece ❤

[@gabriellagirardi4741]

Very interesting video. I didn't know about the existence of a Buddhist republic in this part of Russia! Thank you very much for this great video. Merry Christmas Eli! ❤⭐️🌲Wish you a fantastic 2024..

[@user-hn8dg8qe9u]

Not the only one! The traditional regions of Russia where buddhism is practiced are Buryatia, Tyva, Kalmykia and Altai Republic))

[@Dilipkumargautam379]

Я смотрю ваше видео каждый день. Я индиец, но я русская культура, очень очень впечатлена, вы мои лучшие друзья, дорогие, так что спасибо, еще раз очень обидно. ❤❤❤🎉🎉❤❤❤

[@MaryJones-fs4wf]

Amazing! Russia's strength is in its UNITY! Be strong! Thank you Eli!

[@tonyz766]

The only strength Russia has is strongman Vlad, threatening the world with nuclear war. Invading Ukraine which, stupidly, agreed to give up it's nukes for peace. So sad, the brainwashing of people. All you see, can be lost in a minute because of one male dictator.

[@edwardlee2700]

Unity? Kalmyk history is horrific.....decades of Russian oppression and worse. Check recent history.

[@chjadam]

@MaryJones-fs4wf Unity in what? Unity in keeping the mouth shut, invade other countries stealing and killing like in times of the Huns?

[@chjadam]

@@edwardlee2700 👌 You are absolutely right.

[@MaryJones-fs4wf]

Are you taking about soviet times or the modern history of Russia that practically starts in 2000 after criminal 90s. ?@@edwardlee2700

[@user-gf9qz8xr3x]

Russia has multi cultural citizens , wonderful life for numerous ethnics .Thanks for your interesting vlogs.

[@karacaddy]

Even though my ancestors (Nogays) were their eternal enemies, they were massacred and assimilated by the Russians, just like us. So much so that today's Kalmyk population barely reaches 1850, whereas under normal conditions they should have had a population of 5-6 million. Unless fucking Russia is destroyed, these people will continue to be oppressed even more.

[@bertanelson8062]

This is an amazing & beautiful surprise! Thank you for opening my eyes & heart to "unseen" Russia!

[@denpobedy7881]

I frequented Volgograd (Stalingrad, Tsaritsyn) and learned that the area was made up of Kalmyks, Cossacks and Germans in a section called Serepta. It is fascinating place with a long and varied history.

[@JCasper-tm8uj]

You always bring us to some most interesting places. Thank you very much, Eli. Thanks for bringing up the fact that Mongolian descendants are born with some light-colored blue spots on the body. I have completely forgotten that fact.

[@Quayle47]

Thank you so much Eli your videos keep getting better and better. I never realised that Russia is such a diverse country. I am looking forward to more such videos this year. Much love and appreciation.

[@simonsmatthew]

Hi Eli love your videos, but it would be great if you could include a map when you introduce the part of Russia you are talking about.

[@lyndonthejohnson]

In 2015 and 2016 I went to Moscow on business. One of the representatives from the other side was a Kalmyk. So, this video was a nice introduction to his home republic. Thanks!

[@ucanhnguyen2632]

I am Vietnamese and my daughter had exactly a similar greenish spot!! Amazing!🎉

[@Rm-kr2bp]

It’s awesome! Because of you Eli we learn to know a little bit about our family around the world ,even if we can’t go there.

[@rsk5104]

I visited Kalmykia and Elista in 1994, consulting regarding building the mobile phone network. It is fascinating seeing how it has changed, there were no signs of Bhuddism then. A fascinating video, thank you.

[@vitordelima]

This can be a sign of intelligence agency activity.

[@logohigh1]

eh ?@@vitordelima

[@vitordelima]

@@logohigh1Ugh?

[@jackieow]

Once a person is paranoid, they can never be paranoid enough.@@vitordelima

[@user-pj7kc4rv2u]

​​@@vitordelima Что? Существование там буддизма?

[@user-od7ic9rq1w]

Узнаю благодаря твоим видео больше фактов о своей родине! Прекрасные ролики, вдохновляют на путешествия по нашей стране

[@Dcobosarenas]

Wait wait, Kalmykia is not the homeland of the Russians, it was annexed in Russian imperial times, distinguish between homeland and current territory

[@xalekcey]

@@Dcobosarenas Don't talk nonsense. You have a worldview from the colonial West. Russia has a completely different culture and the principle of state-building. The complex of Western imperialism and victims of colonial policy speaks in you. expand your consciousness and get rid of stereotypes.

[@vitordelima]

@@xalekceyNah, it's the same that happened in Europe before its empires were split into nations and it was done by the same kind of bizarre people (the russian nobility mostly came from Western Europe or the usual places those nobilities came from).

[@xalekcey]

@@vitordelima No. Russia has never been a colonial empire and has not built its relations with other peoples and cultures on the principle of "metropolis - empire". Russian Russian rulers were all Russian (regardless of their nation and blood - they accepted and immersed themselves in Russian civilization), so Russian tsars and emperors have always been at war with European countries. This is a clash of civilizations. The collision of two different principles of government and worldview.

[@mcmerfi_arar]

​@@xalekcey a Ukrainian hater speaks in him, not the complex of Western imperialism

[@christinewedge8980]

I always knew about the different republics and ethnicities within Russia/USSR in a general way. Thank you so much for this grand tour of your country. I love learning about these peoples.. I never knew about a Bhuddhist Russian Republic. Please keep on giving your wonderful virtual tours.

[@randytrashcan]

Lovely people and a lovely place, it seems! Happy New Year from the United States!

[@justinboyer5449]

This was absolutely delightful to watch. Thank you very much Eli! Greetings from USA!

[@sadiththejangunawardana6733]

I have heard this republic earlier. Interesting to hear a Buddhist country in Europe. It's great to make a video about this. Thanks for showing the world of Kalmyks. As a Sri Lankan Buddhist, I am happy about it.

[@jorgebonilla9824]

it's good to see how russians religions an ethnic groups are coexisting each other... it enrichess russias cultures

[@karacaddy]

Even though my ancestors (Nogays) were their eternal enemies, they were massacred and assimilated by the Russians, just like us. So much so that today's Kalmyk population barely reaches 1850, whereas under normal conditions they should have had a population of 5-6 million. Unless fucking Russia is destroyed, these people will continue to be oppressed even more.

[@Oliver1994_]

Thanks for exploring different cultures and traditions in your country. More travel vlogs like this in 2024. Greetings from Philippines ❤

[@mostynbubner8002]

I have loved all the videos from your international travels, but i found and subscribed to you from an interest in russia years ago. You honestly never have to leave Russia as it is always beauty and captivating to me. Thank you and all the best in new year. happy orthodox today also in Australia.

[@hugomitre9096]

Pryviet Eli! Another fascinating video! Your enthusiasm while traveling through Kalmykia is heartwarming. Thank you for sharing and taking us with you to new places and people! Happy travels and stay safe! 🤩✌🏻🫶

[@perastotigautera1426]

Merry Christmas Russia,all the best to you and your beautifull and diverse culture and people!

[@wolfieder354]

What a wonderful video! I love it! Thank you very much, Eli! Greetings from Austria!

[@fazilm1]

It is fascinating to see yet another culture in this land of cultures existing side by side with each other for centuries. Most fascinating is finding an Asiatic culture in the European part of Russia. Thank you again, Eli, for bringing your fascinating country to the world and helping to dispel many of the misconceptions about it. You're a doll. 😊

[@asryorumcu5208]

Yes, they are Turanic people.

[@TroyDowVanZandt]

The tripe soup and fried pastries are very reminiscent of menudo and churros. Re the blue spot, in 451, a combined Roman and Visgothic army destroyed the Hunnic army under Attila during the Battle of Châlons. The survivors melted into the local population. There are villages in this part of France in which infants are born with the blue spot.

[@gregbromberg5427]

Thanks Eli for continuing to showcase your beautiful and diverse country. What you are doing is unprecedented.

[@DiMacky24]

Being an Orthodox Christian in America, traveling to Russia has been on the bucket list for a long time, to see the shrines, holy places, and cathedrals, but I've also wanted to get down to Kalmykia and see a slice of east Asia in Europe. There are so few countries like America that are so vast and varied like Russia.

[@SvetlanaVoikova]

Someday you will be able to make one of your bucket list items come true. This is a trip to Russia.. 😊

[@user-mv5hs3fj4g]

Здравствуйте! Так как есть желание посетить нашу республику Калмыкию,во первых у нас много и православных христиан самих русских вообще около ста национальностей,калмыки тоже есть христиане, есть церкви,на данный момент уже возвели в честь Кирилла и Мифодия церковь идут отделочные работы я там тружусь хотя сам калмык и Буддист,хочу написать вам может будет интересно почему Иисус поступил таким образом,у нас есть тридцать семь практик бодхисаттвы одна из строф гласит, когда твоей в случившемся малейшей нет вины, и всё ж тебя несправедливо обвиняя, на плаху тащит кровожадная толпа готовясь обезглавить проклиная, ты сострадание в сердце сохрани, и заблуждения и плоды деяний злобных безропотно всё на себя прими,так поступает сын Победоносных,и это тринадцатая строфа интересно двенадцать апостолов и он сам,ну всего вам хорошего в новом году,быть добру!

[@jfv65]

Eli, you are a good ambassador for all the different Russian peoples. Always positive friendly and informative. I had no idea about Kalmukia. You tought me something new. I wish a happy and peaceful new year 2024 to you and all your viewers!

[@jamesbuckingham8073]

Thank y'all for sharing your kindness and knowledge, look forward to your travels. When the world calms down would love to visit where you have traveled. If you get a second wish please wish hard for peace

[@aryankarki7900]

I”m from Nepal 🇳🇵🙏🙏🙏.

[@Procopius464]

The Kalmyks are eating a lot better than I am. I'm getting hungry watching this.

[@terrytartu]

Excellent video documenting Zul for the Kalmykian people. I was especially amazed by the high overhead video images in the temple giving a different perspective on the proceedings, indeed the whole video was - as I previously said - excellent!

[@ekaterinap4601]

Thank you so much for showing my beautiful 😍 Kalmykia ❤❤❤

[@ciarandoyle4349]

Please Eli, keep these videos coming: keep pushing back the frontiers of my ignorance. I used to think, before your videos, that Tatars were in the habit of eating raw meat; now I know they eat much the same food as Irish people. I used to think also, that Buddhists were vegetarians, but now I see that the Kalmyk Buddhists are not! The more I watch, the more I enjoy your beautiful photography and the more I hope to learn!

[@user-ns3rm8vj8d]

Лол, откуда вы взяли что татары едят сырое мясо, у вас что агитки Геббельса еще в ходу ?) Я вот такое да же представить не могу , конечно у нас есть стереотипы о западе, но вот такие же как у вас про нас да же близко нет)

[@ciarandoyle4349]

Now I'm laughing too, Mr Turutin. But please let me explain. There is a meal made of ground uncooked meat which is served in some western European countries (not my own) called "steak tartare". The French adjective, "tartare" misled me (and many others) to think this was a Tatar recipe. And perhaps the French do think so. Anyway, the notorious Dr Goebbels, who died by his own hand before I was born, has nothing to do with the matter. -- Bon apétit! Приятного аппетита! ​@@user-ns3rm8vj8d

[@lamberttuffrey6064]

Very good and enjoyable video, thank you. (From a Buddhist temple in the north of England.)

[@herbertcourtesie2459]

This is a most wonderful example of living conditions of peace-loving people, their traditions connected to their deep beliefs that reflect an universal culture of love at its best. Peace and Love be with All. Thank you, Eli. Greetings to all the Kalmyks who came forward to instruct us about their beliefs and traditions.

[@herbertcourtesie2459]

@@freedomvoice8883 Yes, the USA, such a peaceful nation where children are taught to shoot their teachers, pseudo-Christian ministers praise money as their God,. No need to say more. Kalmuk people DONNOT migrate to the Land of Criminals.

[@bheehive4497]

O Eli, So heart warming and full of L O V E. !!!! душевно и красиво, спасибо

[@Jasmine_breeze]

I am a Buddhist and I live in Europe. Actually there are a lot of Buddhists in Europe, but more in the western part. I was surprised that there is a Buddhist Republic in Russia. I didn't know anything about it, but probably because I'm from a different school. It is very nice news that the fascinating nomadic culture has survived. It looks amazing when in the middle of a European city there are buildings like in Asia. There's definitely a good atmosphere there, because they are built to help people.😊

[@vitordelima]

There is a creepy cult nearby with its own Buddhist temple too.

[@jackieow]

There's another one in Billings, Montana that is a weird blend of pseudo-Christianity and fake Buddhism, which plays chant music in the background all day long even if nobody is around.@@vitordelima

[@Jasmine_breeze]

​@@jackieowUnfortunately. There are many cults that use Buddhism or impersonate Hinduism or the yoga tradition, because this is how they gain trust. I don't know if there's any way to help people so that they don't fall into the hands of cults?

[@user-hn8dg8qe9u]

Not only Kalmykia, traditional regions of Russia where Buddhism is practiced are Buryatia, Tyva, Kalmykia and Altai Republic))

[@vitordelima]

@@Jasmine_breezeIt isn't that easy but exposing past crimes can help.

[@alfredschmitz2926]

In the Sayan region of Russia I also saw many beautiful Buddhist temples (Besides shamans, are there, too), but this is Asia. Beautiful informative video, very nicely explained, very close to life. Like always a colourful spectre. Thank you very much to Russia and Eli!

[@carmellewislapthorn1802]

There is so much beauty in our world

[@kseniyalevinstein2007]

Hey Eli, thank you for opening our eyes across the nations, much love, from a Russian American horseback riding nurse who loves to garden and take care of her of her family the nomad way!

[@kseniyalevinstein2007]

Side note, if you ever want to come to Chicago, I got you girl!!!! 😂 no but really, I GOT YOU!

[@shadabaliakbara]

Thank you so much Eli, for letting us know more about Russian and its culture. Throughly enjoying it.

[@peterhowells7309]

Greetings from Scotland! Merry Christmas Eli, may 2024 be a good year for you!

[@okok72277]

I'm so glad to have found your channel, it's really interesting to see how beautiful and diverse Russia is. I've wanted to visit Kalmykia for years and I think it'll be a few more years before I get to go, but I'm really looking forward to the visit, even more so now. I think your perspective is really helpful as opposed to the other videos we see on KZbin, as obviously you can interact with people in their own language, and get a better insight into day to day lives of people there. Thanks again for your videos

[@sylvester_s_talonami1634]

Thank u so much, Elina! I am from Russia and I'm so happy to watch videos like this)

[@imwatchingyoutubevideos]

Been waiting to see more of Russia. Hope we get to see loads more this year.

[@GDNPB]

Happy New Year and Merry Christmas my Russian friend. I'm wishing you the best for this new year and want to thank you because your videos always make me happy!

[@anadikundu1508]

Though I'm not a Buddhist officially, I love this religion the most.

[@bovver93]

Как выходец могу сказать это хорошая работа, вообще неповерхностная, оч качественное видео

[@Jesina_moved_to_Vojvodina]

Exactly, I also like her modesty and the quality of her videos. I'm sure I often come across as anything but modest here, well that's difficult to do otherwise in certain situations...😅🤷 But I was also brought up to be modest and I think it was successful.

[@Jesina_moved_to_Vojvodina]

Точно, мне тоже нравится ее скромность и качество ее видео. Уверена, что я часто выгляжу здесь не скромной, ну да, в некоторых ситуациях сложно поступить иначе...😅🤷 Но меня тоже воспитывали скромной, и я думаю, что мне это удалось.

[@johnelkins8182]

Thank you From John,Amerika

[@cupidsnow3885]

It’s a good day when Eli posts also I love ur accent

[@cryptoalchemist369]

You are Absolutely AMAZING! Thank you for what you do, and sharing the beautiful cultures of Russia with the world! Wishing you a blessed new Year! well, if you're Wishing for true love, Maybe you have found me? I would LOVE to travel Vlog around Russia with you for the rest of my life! the only problem is that I am in Canada 😢 a very very fascist country! I would happily leave it all behind for a new life in the Father land with the lovely Eli

[@Oplix]

Beautiful production and cinematography as always. Best wishes in the New Year and Merry Orthodox Christmas.

[@primoprima788]

That is a beautifull way to celebrate 🥳🎉, Happy New Year to all ! Spaciba Eli , Paka paka 👋😎

[@michelledelagiroday7822]

You always having very interesting and unique subject matter and do an excellent job. Also you look very natural, unusual and beautiful and are tall with red hair and a Russian doll /Asían face.

[@savino1006]

You've got an intersecting culture! What a nice surprise.

[@yesyenboljanaikhan7876]

Cool video from 🇲🇳

[@burqut]

Eli thank you for posting this video. What a pleasure to watch and the place is so beautiful and the people are so kind!

[@IPangkhor]

Wooow! So amazing I cannot describe how much I want to go there and visit!!!

[@rokimarchano5657]

I knew Russia is diverse country but the scale of diversity really surprised me and second thing that is surprise to me is how totalitarian Russia ( Acord. to Western officials) allows to all these different cultures right to learn in the schools and speak their language in public and live their lives according to their traditions Well done and thanks for excellent content Eli

[@alinakirill]

The truth is that the West will always hate Russia. They hated us when we were the Russian Empire, they hated us when we were the USSR, they hate us now when we are the Russian Federation. Do you know why? It's not about the political system (we are no longer monarchists, we are no longer communists, we are capitalists like you), not about religion, not even about language... resources and territory. Russia is the largest country in the world and has a lot of mineral resources.

[@zonacrocone4804]

Once again you surprise us with things I never knew. ho would have expected buddhism in Europe? You are awesome, Eli!

[@emilpavlov6656]

merry Christmas eli as a serb I also celebrate it on january the 7th

[@fred993a]

Eli - You always enrich my life and educate me! Thank you!

[@hypnomarket8649]

Эли такая непосредственность , можно сказать честная незамутненная журналистика, глазами ребенка