Traditional customs in Kazakhstan

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Ағылшын тілі пәні мұғалімі : Жумаханова Раушан Каипжановна

Traditional customs in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan has a rich cultural heritage with many traditional customs that reflect its nomadic past, hospitality, and strong family values. Here are some of the most significant customs:

Hospitality (Қонақжайлық)

Kazakh people are known for their hospitality. Guests are always welcomed warmly, and it is customary to offer them the best food and comfort. A traditional greeting includes serving tea with milk or cream, along with baursaks (fried dough) and other delicacies.

Betashar (Беташар) – Bride’s Unveiling Ceremony

During a wedding, the bride’s face is covered with a white scarf, and she is introduced to her husband’s relatives through a special ritual called Betashar. A singer (often an akyn, a folk poet) performs a song, giving advice to the bride and welcoming her into the family. The bride then bows to her new relatives as a sign of respect.

Kyz Uzatu (Қыз ұзату) – Farewell to the Bride

This is a pre-wedding ceremony where the bride’s family organizes a farewell party before she moves to her husband’s home. It is an emotional event that symbolizes the bride’s departure from her parental home.

Tusau Keser (Тұсау кесер) – Baby’s First Steps Ceremony

When a child takes their first steps, a special ritual called Tusau Keser is performed. An elder cuts a rope tied around the child’s legs, symbolizing a smooth and successful life path. This event is accompanied by blessings and gifts.

Besik Toi (Бесік той) – Cradle Celebration

This is a ceremony held when a newborn is placed in a traditional wooden cradle (besik). Relatives and neighbors gather to bless the child, sing lullabies, and celebrate the baby's future.

Shildekhana (Шілдехана) – Birth Celebration*

This is a festive gathering to celebrate the birth of a child. Friends and family come together to wish health and happiness to the newborn and the parents.

Kurban Ait (Құрбан айт) – Sacrifice Festival

This Islamic holiday, also known as Eid al-Adha, is widely celebrated in Kazakhstan. Families sacrifice an animal (usually a sheep or cow) and distribute meat to the needy, strengthening community bonds.

Nauryz (Наурыз) – Spring New Year Celebration

Nauryz, celebrated on March 22, is one of the most important Kazakh holidays. It marks the arrival of spring and a new year in the Persian calendar. People prepare a special dish called Nauryz Kozhe, visit each other, and take part in various festivities, including traditional games and horse races.

Atka Otyrgyzu (Атқа отырғызу) – First Horse Ride Ceremony

Since horses have played a crucial role in Kazakh culture, there is a special tradition where a child’s first time riding a horse is celebrated with a ceremony. It is seen as a step toward adulthood and independence.

Bayga (Бәйге) – Horse Racing

Horse racing is a traditional sport and a popular event at celebrations and festivals. Riders, often young boys, compete in long-distance races, showcasing endurance and riding skills.

These customs highlight the deep-rooted traditions and cultural values of Kazakhstan, emphasizing hospitality, respect for elders, family ties, and a connection to nature.