Lina Kostenko's Birthday Celebration
On March 19, the renowned Ukrainian poet and writer Lina Kostenko celebrated her 96th birthday. The event brought together prominent figures from Ukrainian culture who came to honor the literary icon. Photos and news from the celebration were widely shared across social media.
Kostenko is a seminal figure in Ukrainian literature, known for her powerful verse and unwavering civic stance during the Soviet era. Among the notable guests at the birthday celebration was People's Artist of Ukraine Ada Rohovtseva. Other distinguished attendees captured in photos from the event included:
- Former Minister of Culture Yevhen Nyshchuk
- Okean Elzy frontman Svyatoslav Vakarchuk
- Writer Serhiy Zhadan
- Editor-in-chief of the newspaper Den, Larisa Ivshyna
- Director of the A-ba-ba-ha-la-ma-ha publishing house, Ivan Malkovych
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko also extended his congratulations to Lina Kostenko. In his address, Klitschko stated:
'I admire your strength of spirit, courage, and nobility, and your inspiration to create, Lina Vasylivna! You remain in Kyiv, upholding the will of our city, which you love so dearly. You inspire Ukrainians to fight for their freedom and to remain true to their principles and ideals. I am proud to know you personally. Thank you for your talent, your resilience, and your love for Ukraine! Many years to you, Lina Vasylivna! Strength and health to you! Happy Birthday!' Vitali Klitschko
Furthermore, Ambassador to the United Kingdom Valerii Zaluzhnyi congratulated Lina Kostenko by reciting her poem 'Life Goes On, All Without Proofreading.' The A-ba-ba-ha-la-ma-ha publishing house also joined in the tributes, expressing its gratitude to the writer.
On social media, Svyatoslav Vakarchuk recalled composing music for a play based on one of Lina Kostenko's novels. The Ukrainian public's reaction to the birthday photos was overwhelmingly positive. Many users left comments thanking the posters for the chance to see a 'living legend of Ukrainian poetry.'
Some of the comments read:
- 'Thank you for sharing. These pictures are a delight!'
- 'Thank you for these photos of a living legend of Ukrainian poetry!'
- 'What fine company!'
- 'What wonderful people gathered! Greetings to the birthday lady!'
The celebration marked a significant milestone in Ukraine's cultural life, highlighting the importance of Lina Kostenko's work to the Ukrainian people.
Lina Kostenko's 96th birthday was not merely a personal celebration but a major event for Ukraine's cultural landscape. The tributes from leading cultural figures and public expressions of gratitude for her literary contributions underscore her profound significance. Her work continues to inspire new generations, and her words remain powerfully relevant amid contemporary challenges. Thus, this anniversary highlights not only the poet's achievements but also the vital role of literature in shaping national identity.
In addition to the heartfelt celebrations, Ambassador Valerii Zaluzhnyi paid tribute to Lina Kostenko by reciting one of her poignant poems, highlighting the enduring impact of her literary work. To explore more about this special moment and the ambassador's touching tribute, visit our article on how he honored the poet on her milestone birthday during the event.