site.btaOver 120 Women Celebrate Traditional Holiday of Babinden in Taraclia

More than 120 women from Taraclia gathered on January 24 for a festive event marking Babinden, a traditional holiday honouring midwives and women who assist in childbirth, the Association for the Development of the Bulgarian Community in Moldova (ADBCM) said.

The participants represented multiple generations and professions. The celebration took place in a local restaurant hall and was organized jointly by ADBCM and local women activists. All participants wore traditional Bulgarian costumes representing various folklore regions of the country. The hall and foyer were decorated in the Bessarabian folk style with carpets, towels, cushions, and archival photographs, an exhibition prepared by the Museum of Cultural Heritage of Taraclia, the Ruse University branch in Taraclia, and other local institutions.

The official ceremony began with the Lord’s Prayer. A central moment of the celebration was the traditional hand-washing ritual. Following the ritual, younger women presented gifts and showcased their creative talents, while the hall was filled with the beauty of Bulgarian folk costumes during a fashion display involving girls and young women.

Georgi Barbarov, Chair of the Bulgarian Community in Moldova, addressed the attendees, highlighting the holiday’s importance for preserving traditions. He noted that the largest Bulgarian community in the country lives in Taraclia and praised ADBCM’s work in safeguarding customs for future generations. Barbarov stressed the vital role of medical staff in women’s health and recognized two doctors present at the event with diplomas.

ADBCM Director and Administrative Director of the Ruse University branch in Taraclia, Alexander Borimecicov, also addressed the attendees, noting that the holiday celebrates new life and honours women who give life. He highlighted the association’s efforts over the past three years to preserve and pass on Bulgarian traditions in Taraclia and across Moldova. Nine women who contributed significantly to maintaining Bulgarian culture were recognized with certificates, while all other participants received symbolic gifts.

Attending the festive was also Bulgarian Consul in Taraclia, Lyubomir Dimov. The celebration featured performances by ensembles Rodolyubie, Bulgarika, Bulgarski Izvor, and other artists, with music, dances, and well-wishes for health and new life continuing late into the evening.

Similar celebrations marking Babinden on January 21 were held in other Moldovan localities with significant Bulgarian communities.