Yaroslav Dronov, the controversial Russian singer who goes by the stagename Shaman, posted a video on social media in which he licks the ice of Lake Baikal. This sparked outrage, primarily among indigenous Buryats, for whom Baikal is a sacred sea. 

When arriving at Lake Baikal, the first thing one is expected to do is greet it and ask for permission to enter. There is a common belief that if someone drowns or a tragedy occurs on Baikal, it means the person has, in some way, angered Grandfather Baikal.

From childhood, we were taught that every land, every lake, and every river has its own spirit and guardian. Water is meant to be treated with respect because people believe it is alive. Lake Baikal, too, has its spirit  —  one who must not be angered, or he will punish those who show disrespect.

Every Buryat knows the legend of Grandfather Baikal, and whenever we pass by it, as with other sacred places, it is customary to make offerings to the spirit of the land. Our legends, traditions, and culture are deeply connected to Baikal.........

© The Moscow Times