In Kyiv, artist desecrates priest image and icons for new song promotion

An act of blasphemy at a song presentation in a Kyiv bar. Photo: Liulenov's Instagram account

In one of  Kyiv bars, a closed presentation of a new song by comedian and performer Ivan Liulenov titled "Icon" took place. To promote the track, the artist organized a religious-themed party, during which he used symbols sacred to believers as decorations for an entertainment show.

The establishment installed stained glass windows depicting human vices, and Liulenov himself appeared before the audience dressed as a Catholic priest. The showman personally served cocktails to guests, attaching pictures to the glasses that completely imitated Orthodox icons in appearance.

Footage from the event also captured some participants placing such "icons" in their mouths. In the caption to these publications, the artist thanked "everyone who partook," referring to drinking alcohol in a blasphemous atmosphere.

Commenting on the situation, Liulenov claimed that his intentions were "pure" and accused believers of provoking conflict because their reaction was "aggressive."

According to the artist, the song is not related to God, and the word "icon" in the lyrics merely serves to describe feminine beauty. He believes he treats religion respectfully, despite using the image of a priest and icons for advertising in a bar.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that a Canadian RCC cathedral held a hockey match broadcast with beer and pizza.

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