The Russification of Halloween Failed: Why Shouldn't It Be Possible to Replace Foreign Evil Spirits with Koshchi? An alternative to a foreign holiday with folktale heroes in Russia is neither possible nor necessary. This opinion was expressed by Ivan Belov, author of the horror anthology "The Scariest Book". He believes that Shai, Baba Yaga or Vodyanoy will turn the night of horror into a children's party. In his opinion, if we are going to add a national flavor to Halloween, it would be better to coincide with Christmas or Ivan Kupala. But such an idea is likely to be met with hostility. Additionally, due to the holiday's association with evil spirits, the Russian Orthodox Church will have questions.

The Russification of Halloween Failed: Why Shouldn't It Be Possible to Replace Foreign Evil Spirits with Koshchi? An alternative to a foreign holiday with folktale heroes in Russia is neither possible nor necessary. This opinion was expressed by Ivan Belov, author of the horror anthology "The Scariest Book". He believes that Shai, Baba Yaga or Vodyanoy will turn the night of horror into a children's party. In his opinion, if we are going to add a national flavor to Halloween, it would be better to coincide with Christmas or Ivan Kupala. But such an idea is likely to be met with hostility. Additionally, due to the holiday's association with evil spirits, the Russian Orthodox Church will have questions.