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Intervision Song Contest: Chance to Make Your Mark

© Sputnik / Vladimir Astapkovich / Go to the mediabankDraws for the running order in the Intervision 2025 song contest
Draws for the running order in the Intervision 2025 song contest - Sputnik India, 1920, 20.09.2025
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The international Intervision Song Contest is held in Russia on September 20, with twenty-one countries set to participate.Here’s what to expect from the festival and who will take the stage.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed that the massive event at Moscow’s “Live Arena” aims to strengthen international humanitarian ties and serve as a “grand, unforgettable celebration.”
“We are very proud that Russia is becoming a hub for global talent, bringing together artists from diverse cultural traditions and musical styles on one stage,” Putin said. “It offers them a remarkable platform to establish their identity.”

What Is Its Purpose?

The name Intervision revives a Soviet-era competition, itself inspired by the 1965 “Golden Key” music festival first held in Prague. That original event featured performers from the USSR, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Poland, and other nations, and later attracted international stars such as German disco group Boney M. and American singer Gloria Gaynor.
Although Putin first proposed reviving Intervision in 2009, and discussions since 2022 have framed it as an alternative to Eurovision, Russian officials stress that it is not meant as a direct rival.
Alexander Alimov, Director of the Department for Multilateral Humanitarian Cooperation and Cultural Relations at the Russian Foreign Ministry, told Russian media:
“Intervision is not seen as a competitor to Eurovision, and it will differ stylistically. We are seeking a unifying language based on mutual respect, cultural sovereignty, and equality. In contrast, Eurovision has become politically driven, betting on shock value and extravagance that border on vulgarity.”

How Will the Winner Be Chosen?



The winner of Intervision will be selected by an international professional jury made up of music industry experts from each participating country.
Russian producer and contest juror Igor Matvienko explained that the jury will focus on “vocal ability, stage presence, and cultural uniqueness.” To avoid conflicts of interest, jurors will not be allowed to vote for their own country.
The performance order for the final was determined by a draw at the “Russia” National Center on September 12.

Who’s Performing?

According to organizers, 21 countries have confirmed participation, including the United States, BRICS and CIS nations, as well as artists from Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
Participants were selected based on their status as “national stars,” their awards, YouTube viewership, strong TV and radio ratings, and overall popularity. Contest rules require performers to be at least 16 years old, though organizers stressed these are guidelines rather than strict requirements.
Notable contestants include Shaman (Yaroslav Dronov), representing Russia with the song “Priyamo po Serdtsu” (“Straight to the Heart”), Kashmiri singer Ruhaan Malik for India, and Brandon Howard—the heir of a musical dynasty—performing “We Are Champions” for the United States.
Rauhan Malik: Voice of India at the International Music Contest Intervision in Moscow - Sputnik India, 1920, 02.09.2025
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Rauhan Malik: Voice of India at International Music Contest Intervision in Moscow
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