President of Tatarstan handed out state awards named after G.Tukai - 2011

A festive ceremony of handing state awards named after G.Tukai - 2011 has taken place in Kazan city. President of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov handed out the highest awards of Tatarstan Republic for achievements in the sphere of culture and art.

State counselor of RT Mintimer Shaimiev, RT Premier Ildar Khalikov, Chairman of RT State Council Farid Mukhametshin and Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin took part in a ceremony. Four state awards named after G.Tukai were handed in of 125-anniversary year of the writer.

Singer Albina Shagimuratova, poetess Lena Shakirzyanova, group of artists Rustem and Maria Kildibekovy and poet – Chairman of RT Union of writers Ilfak Ibragimov became holders of awards in “anniversary” year. The Edict about granting awards was signed by RT President in April and on August, 30 Head of republic personally handed awards to laureates.

Speaking at the square in front of G.Kamal theatre President of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov reminded about celebrating 125-anniversary of famous Tatar poet Gabdulla Tukai in 2011. He noted that celebrations are held all over the world, new monuments are being opened, and today’s handing of awards is one more festive event within the frameworks of anniversary.

“We are proud of our laureates, wish them creative success and hope that we will have tradition of yearly delivery of awards in future”, - R.Minnikhanov said.

Laureates thanked Tatarstan authorities for awards and congratulated citizens of republic on holiday.

After festive ceremony of granting awards distinguished guests took part in opening sculptural composition “Mystery of Shurale” at the square in front of G.Kamal theatre. The sculpture was mounted within the frameworks of 125-anniversary of Gabdulla Tukai. It was made by Honoured art worker of the Republic of Tatarstan Asiya Minnullina.