VOICED: New Year bear festival in Romania

In the small town of Common St in eastern Romania, ritual dances with bear furs are a celebrated tradition believed to ward off evil spirits for the New Year. These dances, rooted in pre-Christian royal customs, involve performers wearing bear furs and visiting homes to drive away negative energies. Romania, home to a significant population of brown bears, views the animal as a symbol of strength and courage. The furs, passed down through generations, are carefully preserved due to their high value. While the tradition's spiritual efficacy is debated, it undeniably draws people together, especially during tough economic times.

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