A documentary film titled “Baikal: Living Water,” focusing on the power of nature and the human spirit, was presented on June 7th in Chita as part of the XII Transbaikal International Film Festival.

The film chronicles the experiences of a winter swimming club from the Moscow region as they travel to Lake Baikal to compete in an open water festival near Olkhon Island. The journey to the sacred lake becomes more than just a sporting event, as the participants encounter the profound mystery of Baikal, leading to personal transformations.

Prior to the screening, the audience had the opportunity to meet Irina Larionova, the film’s creator, who holds a Doctorate of Philosophy and is a professor, a multiple-time Russian champion in winter swimming, and a filmmaker dedicated to showcasing Russian values and traditions.

Larionova described Baikal as an extraordinary place that changes, heals, and transforms individuals. She emphasized that the trip depicted in the film is not solely about a sports competition but also about immersing oneself in the beauty and mystery of nature, fostering courage, humility, and love.

The audience engaged with the filmmakers through a question-and-answer session, learning about the challenges of filming in the extreme conditions of Lake Baikal and the underlying philosophy of the project, which promotes a healthy lifestyle and Russian traditions.

The XII Transbaikal Film Festival received support from Bystrinsky GOK, the general partner, and the Highland Gold group of companies.