Tightrope tradition teeters on verge of extinction in Russian region

In Makhachkala, children are learning the art of tightrope walking at a circus studio, in an attempt to preserve the tradition.
In Makhachkala, children are learning the art of tightrope walking at a circus studio, in an attempt to preserve the tradition. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
Updated
Oct 03, 2018, 05:00 AM
Published
Oct 03, 2018, 05:00 AM
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CHAKHCHAKH (Russia) •An ancient art form is walking a tightrope for survival. But there is a lifeline in the shape of 13-year-old Muhamed Balikhanov.

Wearing a red and silver sequinned jacket, he holds a long pole as he slowly rides a red bicycle along a tightrope suspended several metres off the ground.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 03, 2018, with the headline Tightrope tradition teeters on verge of extinction in Russian region. Subscribe

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