Even the most famous Hollywood stars could hardly get into a great number of characters for a short time. For just 2 months, however, popular Bulgarian chef Penyo Ivanov managed to portray the characters of a rural bachelor, sower, reaper, boza maker, musician and whatnot. He put on dozens of beautiful folk costumes from different regions of the country in order to present in an attractive way the way of life, customs, old crafts and old Bulgarian traditions. Over 30,000 photos were shot in various locations in Bulgaria – Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Sopot, Dobrich, Radomir and Logodazh.

Several videos that present the magic of Bulgarian folk costumes were also made. Everyone interested could see them at the Facebook page of "Keeper of Traditions". The photo session was part of the Traditions in the City Campaign initiated by Chef Penyo Ivanov. "Every Bulgarian is guardian of traditions. This is part of us and it is our responsibility to transfer these traditions to the next generations. When you put on a Bulgarian folk costume, no matter from which region of the country it is, the feeling is amazing,” he adds.

"I like equally every costume,” he says. “It is a fact that some costumes are slightly more practical while in order to put on others you need someone’s help. But I don’t have a most favorite one. Moreover, I have relatives in all regions of Bulgaria, so every place brings me special energy.”

Local folk dancers and amateurs also joined several photo sessions of Chef Penyo Ivanov. In Sopot children from the Sopotski Esnaf Association of craftsmen took part. "I am always glad that there are people who teach their children from an early age to love Bulgarian traditions," says Mr. Ivanov. The campaign does not end here. One of the next stops will be Smolyan and the mystical Rhodope Mountains. Chef Ivanov’s love towards Bulgarian traditions is not new. He is the founder of the Association for the Development of Arts and Crafts 7 /A.R.I.Z.7/. On his initiative, the Pustra Trapeza culinary festival takes place for the fifth consecutive year. This colorful festival has already visited more than 80 different towns and cities across the country.

"Cooking is the focus of the festival,” says Penyo Ivanov. “We organize a culinary exhibition that shows typical dishes prepared by local people. Professional chefs also demonstrate their craftsmanship, preparing various dishes that the guests can taste. Special attention is paid to folklore, too. Amateurs and professionals, either dancers or musicians present their repertoire. Last but not least there is a children’s drawing competition entitled “Grandma’s Recipes".  The drawing of the winner is used for making a poster of the festival. We also invite different schools, kindergartens, and community centers to take part in the events. "

Chefs from across the country also have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills. The last ingredient to this colorful table is the “chef’s pan.” In it Chef Ivanov traditionally prepares delicious beans, generously seasoned with lots of vegetables and bacon.

English: Alexander Markov