President Putin dived into icy waters to perform Russian ritual – telam

“You know he does it traditionally. He (Vladimir Putin) does not change traditions,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov explained to the media, although he did not specify where he was. played in the ritual.

Despite the fact that this year the temperatures broke the record for cold in Russia, and the night of January 18-19 was one of the lowest temperatures in the capital Moscow, Putin, known for its inclination to extreme sports, assumed the challenge and dove.

This tradition, which symbolizes the baptism of Jesus Christ, is followed by Orthodox Christians and consists of diving three times in icy waters while crossing each other.

It is believed to wash away the sins of believers who fulfill it.

Every year, local authorities in different cities allow certain points in rivers, lakes and lagoons which at this time are usually on the frozen surface.

Therefore, the preparation of this commemoration takes time, as the ice cap is usually pierced in the shape of a cross, turning the place into a small frozen pool where believers plunge.