Rustam Minnikhanov: Mother tongue is a living breath of the nation, the treasury of its spirit and historical memory

On 26 April in his address on the occasion of the 140th birthday of the great Tatar poet Gabdulla Tukay and the Native Language Day, the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov congratulated residents of the republic and all compatriots with the great holiday and said: “Mother tongue is a living breath of the nation, the treasury of its spirit and historical memory. It is in this tongue that the moral guidelines for preserving the identity of the people in the rapidly changing world are laid down.

Tukay has become a symbol of Tatar poetry. Whole generations grew up on his immortal poems – with the melodious “Native Tongue” we make first steps in learning the world and in the deep philosophical lyrics find answers to questions of existence. The word of Tukay is relevant at all times as it heals the soul, awakens conscience and inspires us for creative work. It is he who made a substantial contribution into the development of modern standard Tatar language which is the true wealth for each of us.

Today, the work of another great master of words, the poet-hero Musa Jalil, whose 120th anniversary we also celebrate this year, has acquired particular relevance. His courage has become a standard for all of humanity, serving as an example for our multinational youth, who defend their homeland, their languages, culture, and traditions with arms in hand.

May the great cultural heritage of our famous ancestors serve a reliable foundation in preservation of native tongue, passing on its beauty and wealth to descendants as a unique value.”

In conclusion Rustam Minnikhanov wished everyone peace, prosperity, endless inspiration and pride for native languages and culture.