Fifth Nasretdinov Readings Held in Mari El

On 17 October, the fifth interregional scientific and educational conference, "Nasretdinov Readings," opened in Berenge, an urban-type settlement in the Mari El Republic where many Tatars live. The Spiritual Directorate of Muslims of Russia reported the event.

Held during the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia, the conference is devoted to the theme "Unity in Diversity: Religion, Communication and Kinship Values in the History of the Fatherland." It honours the Nasretdinov dynasty of imams, well known across Russia, which made a major contribution to the spiritual and moral development of Tatar Muslims in Mari El. Descendants of the family, including religious figures, continue to preserve its legacy.

Speakers include religious and public figures, representatives of republican and municipal authorities, and local historians. Berenge is known for the peaceful coexistence of Tatars, Mari, Russians and other nationalities. According to the 2010 census, 47.74 percent of the population of Berenge district are Tatars.