Minskers Held Event In Memory Of Vasil Bykau

The great Belarusian writer could turn 93 today.

The laying of flowers and a memorial event, dedicated to the anniversary of the great Belarusian writer and thinker’s birth, were held the at Vasil Bykau’s grave at the Ushodniaye cemetery of the capital, Radio Racyja reports.

Traditionally, there gathered like-minded people and friends of Uncle Vasil, as he was called during his lifetime. Poet Uladzimir Niakliayeu, Chairman of the Union of Belarusian Writers Baris Piatrovich, translator and politician Liavon Barshcheuski, publisher Uladzimir Siuchykau. As well as the widow Iryna, to whom the new printed editions of Bykau's novellas were handed. As well as the first graphic novel based on the story "Relatives", specially designed by this artist Yan Zhvirbl.

Today Vasil Bykov would have turned 93. The day before, the 10th ceremony of awarding the For Freedom of Thought prize named after Vasil Bykau took place at his homeland in the village of Bychki. This year, it was awarded to 36-year-old politician and ex-political prisoner Zmitser Dashkevich.