283 years since Derzhavin: preparations are underway in Tatarstan to celebrate the poet's memory

      On July 14, 2026, Russia remembers one of the greatest sons of the homeland — Gavriil Romanovich Derzhavin, a poet, statesman, and native of the Kazan province. In Tatarstan, on the homeland of the classic, traditional solemn ceremonies, concerts, and flower laying will take place.

      Gavriil Romanovich Derzhavin — a name that holds a special place not only in the history of Russian literature but also in the cultural code of Tatarstan. A poet whose odes resonated at the court of Catherine II, a statesman, governor, and minister of justice, he began his journey right here, on the banks of the Kama and Volga rivers. And today, nearly three centuries later, his memory is carefully preserved in the republic. In 2026, it marks 283 years since the birth of Gavriil Romanovich. And although the date is not round, it is treated with special reverence in Tatarstan. Traditional events dedicated to this day will once again gather admirers of the poet's work in Kazan and the Laishevsky district.

      Celebrations in Kazan

      In the morning of July 14, in the Lyadsky Garden of the capital of Tatarstan, at the monument to Derzhavin, a flower-laying ceremony will take place. The start is at 10:30. Representatives of the Government of the Republic of Tatarstan, the leadership of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Tatarstan, and the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Tatarstan will participate in the event. Among the honored guests are members of the Union of Writers of the Republic of Tatarstan, representatives of national and cultural associations, educators, and the scientific and literary-cultural community. All residents and guests of Kazan who wish to join are also invited.

      The Lyadsky Garden is not a random place. It was here in 1846, while the poet was still alive, that a square was laid, and in 2003, a monument created by sculptor Mahmut Gasimov was installed. Today, it is one of the main attractions for all who honor Derzhavin's legacy.

      The celebration in the poet's homeland — in Laishevo

      In the afternoon, the celebration will move to the Laishevsky district — the small homeland of Gavriil Romanovich. At 14:00, in the central square of the city of Laishevo, a traditional flower-laying ceremony will take place at the poet's monument, followed by a festive concert with the participation of the general public.

      Laishevo has always been closely associated with the name of Derzhavin. Here he spent his childhood years and left to study at the Kazan gymnasium. And today, this city preserves the memory of its great compatriot as a poet and a person whose ideas about truth, justice, and service to the homeland remain relevant to this day.

      Derzhavin Museum — within the framework of the national project "Culture"

      It is important to note that in the Laishevsky district, a museum was opened for the 280th anniversary of the poet, created as part of the national project "Culture." Today, its work continues in a new format — as part of the federal project "Family Values and Cultural Infrastructure" of the national project "Family."

      The museum's exhibition impresses with its depth and variety. It is housed in seven halls, each of which is a separate page of history:

      "Archaeology of the Laishevsky Region" — ancient artifacts telling about the first settlements on this land;

      "History of the City of Laishevo from the Mid-16th to the Early 20th Century" — chronicles of the city's development;

      "Everyday Life and Ethnography of the Laishevsky Region" — the way of life, traditions, and customs of the local residents;

      "River of Time: The Life of Derzhavin" — the central hall dedicated to the biography and creativity of the poet;

      "The Role of the Nobility in the Life of the Laishevsky Region in the 18th to Early 20th Century" — the history of noble estates and their influence on the region's development;

      "The Soviet Period" — pages of the 20th century;

      "The Nature of the Laishevsky District" — a unique natural world;

      "The Development of the Laishevsky District Today" — modernity and prospects.

      The museum has become not only a place of memory but also an important cultural center attracting tourists and researchers from all over the country.

      Why Derzhavin is important for Tatarstan today

      Gavriil Derzhavin is more than a poet. He is a symbol of cultural continuity, a connection between eras and generations. His creativity inspires, and his state achievements command respect. The fact that the people of Tatarstan continue the tradition of celebrating his birthday year after year speaks of a deep and sincere love for their heritage.

      Come on July 14 to the Lyadsky Garden or to Laishevo to join these touching and solemn events. The memory of great people lives not in dates but in the hearts of those who remember.

      photo by Tatar-Inform

      Yulia Kazamarova