The British Embassy in Turkmenistan held an evening on Friday, January 24th, dedicated to the renowned Scottish poet and folklorist Robert Burns, as well as Scottish culture, language, and traditions. The event coincided with the poet's birthday on January 25th, a national holiday in Scotland celebrated with a formal dinner featuring a traditional sequence of dishes he immortalized in his works, served to the sound of Scottish bagpipes and preceded by recitations of Burns' poems.

This day is also celebrated by admirers of Burns' work worldwide. In Turkmenistan, where there are many connoisseurs of Burns' poetry, including his famous "My Heart's in the Highlands", this vibrant event was organized for the first time.

Robert Burns is one of the most famous Scottish poets, author of numerous poems and ballads written in both Scots and English. He was also a popularizer of traditional Scottish culture and folklore, co-publishing with James Johnson the collection "The Scot's Musical Museum", which included numerous Scottish ballads arranged by Robert Burns as well as his own works.

Scots are a people with a deep respect for their traditions. Their culture is distinguished by distinctive national dances, bagpipe music, and characteristic dishes such as haggis and the famous Scottish pies.

The attendees of the Ashgabat evening were able to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Scottish culture, its poetry, music, and dance. Kilts made of tartan, the traditional Scottish patterned cloth of checks and stripes, a characteristic element of male Scottish national dress, were also seen at the event.

ORIENT