Russian President Vladimir Putin made headlines as he marked the feast of Epiphany in a striking manner. Embracing an Orthodox Christian ritual, he stripped down to his bathing trunks and ventured into the frigid waters of Lake Seliger in the Svetlitsa village, braving the ice bath temperature reported to be around -6 degrees Celsius (21 degrees Fahrenheit) at the time.
In a display that garnered attention across state media, Putin, dressed only in a sheepskin coat, felt boots, and swimming trunks, walked confidently towards the icy waters. Shedding his coat and boots before taking the plunge, he participated in this annual ritual, which holds great significance in the Orthodox Church.
Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesperson, revealed that while the President had previously immersed himself in icy waters, this marked the first public display of such an act. Putin, who grew up in an era of Communist rule that discouraged open displays of religion, has consistently appeared at Russian Orthodox ceremonies, granting the Church an increasingly influential role in Russian society.
With Russia on the brink of forthcoming polls scheduled for March 18, where Putin seeks re-election, his participation in the Epiphany ritual may be perceived as an effort to connect with fervent followers of Orthodox Christianity amid his campaign trail.
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While this isn’t the first instance of Putin displaying his physique, his previous shirtless escapades have also gained attention. Notably, in August 2017, photos of Putin on a fishing trip in Siberia, bare-chested, showcasing a well-toned torso, went viral.
Epiphany, a significant holiday in the Orthodox Church, commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. Followers observe a ritual immersion in lakes or rivers three times, representing the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Orthodox tradition involves priests blessing water bodies during Epiphany week. These blessed waters are believed to possess purifying and healing properties, drawing devout believers who brave extreme conditions, including Siberia’s sub-zero temperatures.
Beyond his public appearances, Putin has also been noted for maintaining his physical fitness, with images surfacing in August 2015 of him exercising in a gymnasium.
The President’s symbolic participation in Epiphany rituals adds another dimension to his public image, emphasizing religious observance and connecting with traditions deeply ingrained in Russian culture.
