Santa Claus in USSR (and now in Russia) was called Ded Moroz (Russian: Дед Мороз). The literal translation of the name would be "Old Man Frost", although the name is often translated as "Father Frost" in light of the modern usage of "ded" to refer to a grandfather. Ded Moroz is said to bring presents to children, however, unlike the secretive Santa Claus, the gifts are often delivered "in person", at New Year's Eve parties and other New Year celebrations. In Soviet Estonia Ded Moroz was called Näärivana, but now he is Jõuluvana and is coming with Christmas (jõulud) presents :)
I was surprised at the Santa Claus imagery, considering the card is from the USSR.
ReplyDeleteSanta Claus in USSR (and now in Russia) was called Ded Moroz (Russian: Дед Мороз). The literal translation of the name would be "Old Man Frost", although the name is often translated as "Father Frost" in light of the modern usage of "ded" to refer to a grandfather. Ded Moroz is said to bring presents to children, however, unlike the secretive Santa Claus, the gifts are often delivered "in person", at New Year's Eve parties and other New Year celebrations.
ReplyDeleteIn Soviet Estonia Ded Moroz was called Näärivana, but now he is Jõuluvana and is coming with Christmas (jõulud) presents :)