Every native of Grozny knows that, before the war, people of all
cultures and nationalities lived in the city in peace and
good-neighbourliness.
The "Krasny Molot" plant was situated in the
city in those times. The people who worked there lived in special
apartment houses. After the war all Russians, Armenians and Jews left
for other regions or countries. However, they all maintained links
with their former neighbours.
The Polishchyuks left for Moscow long ago. Still, Aunt Ella calls her
former neighbours who are still living in Grozny every day. She often
visits them and receives visitors from Chechnya herself.
According to Chechen traditions, it's very important to support one's
neighbours when they have some troubles. If someone dies, all
neighbours should visit the house of the deceased and express their
condolences to the family. In such days the doors of the whole
neighbourhood are opened, in order to show that one's neighbour's loss
is one's own loss.
On meeting a friend or just an acquaintance Chechens and Ingushetians
always enquire whether he is all right or needs help. It's necessary
to offer one's help, when it's needed.
Timur Utsayev, Grozny. Exclusively to VK
