Penza, 6 June 2017. PenzaNews. A solemn rally dedicated to Pushkin Russia Day was held in Penza on Tuesday, June 6.

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Before the start of the event, dozens of people who gathered in the Pushkin public garden could listen to poet's poems relayed there. Girls and boys in ballroom costumes danced to the accompaniment of an orchestra.

Turning to those present, the deputy chairman of the Penza region government Oleg Yagov noted that Alexander Pushkin made a significant contribution to formation of literature as well as to establishment of the modern Russian language.

"Alexander Sergeevich is not only a founder of realism. Pushkin is also a founder and creator of the modern Russian literary language, which we use nowadays for communication. I am very glad that the Penza region remembers Pushkin, reads his works and each year makes new surprises for the poet's birthday," he said emphasizing that on this day a large number of solemn events is conducted in Penza.

In turn, the Penza head Valery Savelyev noted that the modern generation was brought up on Alexander Pushkin's fairytales.

"His works unite people of all ages and nationalities. [...] Today's holiday is another great opportunity to delve deeply into the world of poetry and prose," he added.

Then, participants of the rally laid flowers to a bust of Alexander Pushkin. The ceremony was followed by reciting author's poems in the public garden.