On the occasion of Victory Day, Russian House in Trivandrum, with support of Rosatom, organised a series of celebratory events, including the Russian Film Festival, to honour the sacrifices of World War II veterans and highlight the importance of preserving historical memory. The multi-day programme brought together dignitaries, historians, students, and residents through film screenings, seminars, exhibitions, and a special closing reception.

The commemorative activities culminated on May 8 with a solemn parade featuring an 80-metre-long St. George Ribbon, held at Svyatoslav Roerich Street and Shangumugham Beach. The walk symbolised remembrance and gratitude, and saw participation from over 80 attendees, including Russian and Indian residents, students, and members of the local community.

In addition, participants of the “Garden of Memory” campaign in India, including those working on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant project, took part in the Parade as part of the broader Victory Festival, held in Thiruvananthapuram from April 30 to May 8.

“Today is filled with deep meaning and emotion. Together, we carried the 80-metre St. George Ribbon as an expression of our shared memory, gratitude, and respect for those who defended peace at great cost,” said Anton Chistyakov, Deputy Director and Head of Construction at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant site, JSC ASE. “We are united by timeless values — peace, courage, and loyalty to our roots. It is inspiring to see how, even far from home, people’s hearts still resonate with the feat and heroism of the Great Victory.”

In the evening, the Closing Reception took place at S P Grand Days Hotel, attended by senior dignitaries, political leaders, scholars, and Russian compatriots.

The ceremony was graced by T.K.A. Nair (Ayyappan Kutty Nair), former Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India, who reflected on the lasting global significance of the victory in World War II. “The victory in World War II was not only a triumph over tyranny but also a turning point for many nations striving for freedom and equality. It reminds us of the importance of solidarity and the sacrifices made for peace. The long-standing friendly relations between India and Russia (formerly the Soviet Union) have also continued as a strategic partnership between our nations,” Nair said.

The event also featured remarks by eminent historians and members of the Indo-Russian Council for History, followed by the screening of the documentary "The Eastern Front: The Unknown War." 

Ratheesh Nair, Director, Russian House, Trivandrum, highlighted the festival’s role in preserving historical memory. “For 25 years, the Russian House in Trivandrum has been organising various events dedicated to May 9, including exhibitions, seminars, and meetings. In 2022, we thought about how to preserve the memory of the immense contribution of the Soviet people to Victory and global peace. That year, 77 people gathered to unfurl a 77-metre ribbon on the streets of the Indian city to mark the anniversary of Victory. In subsequent years, this tradition continued with a 78-metre and then a 79-metre ribbon. This year, during what has become a traditional march in Trivandrum, we unfurled an 80-metre ribbon. This event allows us to preserve the memory of those who truly secured victory in that war, enabling not only the Russian people but also all other nations to achieve lasting peace.”

The Victory Day celebrations and Parade reaffirmed the significance of World War II and the value of peace, reinforcing Rosatom's dedication to cultural and educational outreach across borders.