Traditions still play an important role in the life of the Kyrgyz people, preserving their unique culture and heritage. We will tell you about 10 traditions that reflect the richness and diversity of Kyrgyzstan's cultural heritage.
Tushoo kesү
The Tushoo Kesү ceremony is a traditional holiday celebrated in Kyrgyzstan with great fanfare. Families organize a feast, set a lavish table and invite many guests.
The rite of cutting the putt looks like this: the baby's feet are tied with a rope ''ala zhip", which is cut by the first runners in the competition. They then help the baby to take its first steps and receive prizes. At tushoo kesүү several races are organized with prizes for each winner among children, men and women.
Kalym
This custom requires the groom or his family to pay a certain amount of money to the bride's parents as a token of gratitude for giving their daughter in marriage. Generally, the bride's parents use kalym to collect their daughter's dowry.
Dowry
Kyrgyz dowry is called "sep". It includes everything necessary for the newlyweds' life: appliances, toshoki, chest, bedroom furniture, sometimes an apartment and a car. Usually the family prepares the dowry before the girl is married.
Sүүunchү
A story about a joyful event for which a gift or money is given.
Kөrүndүk
A monetary gift given for seeing a newborn baby, a new car, a diploma and more. In today's society, people send photos via social media and attach bank card or e-wallet numbers to receive korunduk.
Chachyla
This tradition involves sprinkling sweets on someone or something and is associated with wishes of happiness, joy and abundance. For example, during a wedding, housewarming or apartment purchase.
Nan ooz tiygizүү
It is not customary for Kyrgyz people to let guests go without a treat, so the host invites them to tea or offers them bread with the words "Nan ooz tiyigiz". This custom shows the hospitality of the Kyrgyz people.
Arkan tosuu
On the way to the bride's house, the groom's side faces an obstacle — a rope stretched by young men, which prevents cars from passing. To pass, they must pay money or give a gift.
Kiyit
This is clothing or jewelry given to the parties on the occasion of a wedding, anniversary, wake or other important event among the Kyrgyz.
Koshok
Among Kyrgyz mourning rituals, there is still the custom of "koshok" — mourning in a loud voice to express sorrow for a departed relative.
