Lenin Square's sergeant serves as a representation of authority.
In a recent analysis shared on his Telegram channel, journalist Vitaly Obedin has raised concerns about the symbolism of the reconstructed Lenin Square in Yakutsk, Russia. According to Obedin, the square's design, filled with meaningful, functional principles of the traditional worldview of the Olonho land, appears to prioritise power over hospitality and prosperity.
At the heart of the square stands the 12-columned Moggol Urasa, a modern interpretation of ancient festival organisers' 12 horse hitching posts. This structure, according to Obedin, symbolises power in the square's design. However, he questions the installation of a symbol of power opposite the DMP-1, a building that houses Yakutia's government, where officials are supposed to serve the people.
Obedin also expresses concerns about the metal sculptures on the square, stating they will be difficult to clean and will quickly become giant dust collectors. He further emphasises that, according to Yakut mythology, iron sculptures like those on the square are associated with the Lower World.
The architectural and planning solution of the square is based on the ethnic symbolic concept, as described in the "Yakutia" newspaper. The sculptures on the square are referred to as load-bearing columns. However, Obedin interprets the square as a symbol of power, rather than hospitality, wealth, and prosperity for ancestors who lived in a class society.
Obedin's analysis comes after the Architecture Department of the republic released an official statement about the square's design. The department's description mentions that the square's design is filled with principles of the traditional worldview of the Olonho land.
In his analysis, Obedin shares his thoughts on the symbolism of the reconstructed Lenin Square, encouraging readers to consider the implications of the square's design and whether it truly represents the values and spirit of the community it serves.
In the heart of the square, the Moggol Urasa stands as a modern interpretation of power, contrasting with the DMP-1, a building intended for serving the people. The home-and-garden environment of Lenin Square seems to prioritize a lifestyle of power, as per Obedin's analysis, instead of hospitality, wealth, and prosperity symbolized by the traditional worldview of the Olonho land.
