On April 18, the Russian House in Brussels hosted the grand opening of the Days of Ossetian Culture — an annual cultural forum organized by the International Non-Profit Association “Renaissance-Sandidzan” (Belgium), which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. The event took on special significance in the context of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, becoming a space for remembrance, creativity, and cultural exchange.

The event opened with a round table discussion addressing intercultural dialogue, cooperation prospects, and the role of art in overcoming political and ideological barriers. As the head of the association, Radion Pukhaev, noted: “Dialogue is necessary, and the exchange of cultural experience is a relevant and achievable path.”

Participants of the discussion included representatives of the scientific and creative intelligentsia of North and South Ossetia, artists, members of the Ossetian diaspora, as well as European experts and invited guests. Joining the discussion online were: the Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Ossetia Akhsar Dzhioev, the Minister of National Policy and External Relations of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania Alan Kazbekovich Bagiev, the Rector of the South Ossetian State University named after A.A. Tibilov Vadim Botazovich Tedeev, and the Rector of the North Ossetian State Medical Academy Oleg Valeryevich Remizov.

The highlight of the evening was the international art exhibition “Inspiration,” featuring works by Ossetian masters of painting and graphics from Russia, South Ossetia, Germany, Greece, Italy, and Latvia. The exhibition showcases pieces by renowned artists such as Vadim Pukhaev, Lyra Alborova, Fatima Tomayeva-Gabellini, Galina Schweiger, Roksolana Chochieva, and Amina Gubieva. The exhibition demonstrates the richness of Ossetian artistic heritage, where traditions seamlessly blend with modern forms of self-expression.

Particular attention was drawn to the film screenings, including a documentary about Ossetian participants in the Great Patriotic War and the film “My Brother Doctor Mols” directed by Vadim Tsalikov. This profound story of kinship across distance and time has already been recognized at international festivals. One of the film’s heroes, Serge Mols from Brussels, attended the screening in person.

The guests also enjoyed a culinary immersion: a tasting of traditional Ossetian dishes, including the famous Ossetian pies, symbols of hospitality and warmth of the Ossetian people.

The Days of Ossetian Culture are not just a celebration but an open platform for communication, understanding, and the convergence of cultures. Art, cinema, and cuisine become bridges between peoples, reminding us of unity in diversity.