ruskistamalla

Ruskistamalla, also known as Russian Stampede, is a traditional Finnish folk dance that originated in the 19th century. The dance is characterized by its fast-paced, energetic movements and is typically performed by a group of dancers in a circular formation. The name "ruskistamalla" comes from the Russian word "ruski," which means "Russian," and "stamalla," which means "stampede." This reflects the dance's origins and its lively, stampeding-like movements.

The dance is often performed during folk festivals, weddings, and other social gatherings. It requires a high level of physical fitness and coordination, as dancers must maintain a steady rhythm while moving in and out of the circle. The dance is typically led by a caller who provides instructions to the dancers, guiding them through various figures and movements.

Ruskistamalla is an important part of Finnish cultural heritage, and its popularity has helped to preserve traditional Finnish dance styles. The dance is also a popular tourist attraction, with many groups performing it at festivals and events around the world. Despite its origins in Russia, ruskistamalla has become deeply ingrained in Finnish culture and is now considered a quintessential Finnish folk dance.