CULTURES AROUND US
Stories That Bring People Together
Indian Rhythms, Flavours and Shared Stories at the Rannarootsi Museum
In mid-June, the Rannarootsi Museum in Haapsalu hosted the Indian Cultural Evening of the Haapsalu integration project. In the historical setting of the coastal folk museum, local sea air, the colours of Indian culture and exotic masala chai blended together, creating a warm and harmonious atmosphere.
Integration truly comes alive in such genuine moments: in a sincere smile when trying on traditional Indian clothing for the first time, and in shared activities that create new and lasting connections within our Haapsalu community.
Cultural Richness Through Personal Experience
India’s rich cultural heritage was brought to Haapsalu by Pooja Kohli, leader of Indian-Estonian Women Sõprus (IEWS). Newly arrived immigrants from Ukraine and local residents of Haapsalu experienced something far greater than a simple cultural introduction.
Throughout the evening, participants admired the deep symbolism of traditional henna art, tasted Indian dishes and sweets, learned how to wear a colourful saree and discovered how entire stories can be told through the language of dance.
"It was my first time trying on a saree and tasting Indian sweets. This evening left an exceptionally bright and inspiring memory."
REFLECTIONS FROM A PARTICIPANT OF THE INDIAN CULTURAL EVENING
During shared discussions, participants noticed that Estonian and Indian cultures have much in common. Both are characterised by a deep respect for nature, strong family values and an appreciation for national traditions and symbols.
Traditional Indian Clothing
Exploring Henna Art
Shared Moments
Bollywood Dance Workshop
Rhythms and Languages
That Bring People Together
One of the most memorable parts of the evening was the Bollywood dance workshop held in the museum courtyard. As the organiser, it was especially moving for me to see everyone dancing together. People who may have only met that evening moved together so freely and joyfully, as if they had known one another for years. It was a moment when any sense of unfamiliarity was replaced by shared energy.
The atmosphere was made even more special by the natural flow between languages. Since one of the goals of our project is to encourage the practice of Estonian, it was a pleasure to see people communicating naturally in Estonian, Russian and English. Participants helped one another by translating instructions and exchanging thoughts in whichever language felt most comfortable. Shared activities, whether dancing or cooking, always create the best environment for language learning and help barriers disappear naturally.
Indian Cuisine as a Window into Culture
Throughout the evening, participants learned about the significance of Indian food culture and sampled traditional samosas, sweets and other delicacies. The shared table offered an opportunity to discover new flavours and exchange stories about everyday life and hospitality in India.
Integration Is a Two-Way Journey
Pooja Kohli, co-creator of the event, emphasised that such meetings enrich everyone involved.
"For me, integration is a two-way journey. In addition to adapting to a new country, it also means having an opportunity to contribute to the community and share something meaningful from one's cultural background."
POOJA KOHLI
COMMUNITY BUILDER · LEADER OF INDIAN-ESTONIAN WOMEN SÕPRUS (IEWS)
Pooja believes that such events help people feel more connected to the communities in which they live.
“As an Indian living in Estonia, these events help me connect with local people and feel more rooted here. Every such meeting strengthens my sense of belonging and shows that I can actively become part of Estonia’s multicultural story.”
A Sense of Community That Endures
Participants’ feedback vividly reflected what we hope to achieve in Haapsalu. One participant described it beautifully:
“Cultural richness is the ability to see beauty in differences and understand that diversity makes our world more united. Such encounters help us genuinely feel part of the Haapsalu community.”
The Indian Cultural Evening in Haapsalu demonstrated that opening our doors and hearts to new traditions enriches our shared living environment, making it more colourful, welcoming and connected.
The Indian Cultural Evening was organised in cooperation with members of Indian-Estonian Women Sõprus (IEWS), whose activities and events can be explored through their Facebook community.
Text by Julia Gurjeva (Integration Coordinator)
A Ukrainian Cinema Gem and the Spirit of Easter
Just before Easter, the Haapsalu Cultural Center once again filled with members of the Ukrainian community, who came together to celebrate the upcoming holidays and reconnect with their cultural roots. This year, the focus was on Ukrainian film classics, accompanied by a shared discussion on history.
By valuing and embracing cultural diversity, we can all take part in and benefit from the rich cultural life that Haapsalu has to offer.
Traditions and the Spirit of the Holidays
As the event took place just before Easter, it also included traditional holiday activities. Younger participants had the chance to take part in a creative workshop, where they made festive bunnies and drawings, while the table was filled with traditional holiday snacks and cakes that brought a true sense of home and celebration to the room.
A Film Classic That Brings Generations Together
The highlight of the evening was a shared screening of a true gem of Ukrainian cinema, the 1961 cult classic Chasing Two Hares. Before the screening, an engaging discussion about the film’s history and meaning offered viewers a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. It is remarkable how this film has retained its relevance and charm even decades later, bringing a sense of recognition and enjoyment to both older and younger generations.
The first cultural event in Haapsalu
April 27, 2025
Ukrainian easter traditions
On April 27, 2025, Haapsalu Culture House hosted the first cultural introduction event, focusing on the Easter traditions of the Ukrainian people. It was a heartfelt celebration that brought together people of all ages to discover the richness of Ukrainian culture.
During the event, visitors were able to enjoy traditional Easter pasha, folk dances, various games and Ukrainian songs. The stage featured Tetiana Ivuškina and the trio Perelaz.
Both children and adults were offered a variety of workshops, face painting, balloon animal making, and candy tasting. The participants also decorated a symbolic “Tree of Life“, which carries the mission of “Uniting All Nations“. At the end of the celebration, everyone who wished could sing and dance together. Shared moments like these are an important part of strengthening our sense of identity, helping us preserve our culture and national traditions even when we are far from home.
