RIA Novosti reports.
It is noted that the coffin with the body of the artist is installed on the stage, surrounded by wreaths from friends, colleagues, officials and organizations.
Later, the actor will be buried at the Troekurovsky cemetery.
Soviet and Russian theater and film actor, theater director, People's Artist of the RSFSR Valentin Gaft died on December 12 at the age of 85.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences over the death of the People's Artist.
He called Gaft's death a great loss for all fans of his talent and for the entire Russian culture.