SOVIET-INDIAN CULTURAL EXCHANGE IN 1954-1960 ON THE EXAMPLE OF VARIETY

Cultural exchange in 1954 - 1960 played an important role in the formation of Soviet-Indian cooperation. Adhering to the principles of "pancha shila", the Soviet leadership used the strategy of "soft power" to expand its own influence in Asian countries. The exchange of creative teams and individual performers laid the foundation for building cultural relations between the USSR and India in the future. Closer contacts in the period under review were established between circus, theatrical art and dance ensembles. Spectators from both countries had the opportunity to get to know the intangible cultural heritage of the USSR and India, which, in turn, formed a positive impression on the public. Without official agreements, the exchange was carried out during the period under review on the basis of mutual interest, thanks to the initiative of the USSR leadership, closer interaction was carried out, contacts were expanded in the cultural sphere. Consideration of the issue of the place of variety art in the Soviet-Indian cultural exchange makes it possible to determine the features of the process, identify problematic components, in particular, the reluctance to expand the geography of exchanges and the increase in the cost of organizing tours by the Indian leadership. Nevertheless, the Soviet side sought to use this channel to promote the Soviet way of life, deliberately investing heavily in the implementation of plans for cultural interaction with India.