“Nomadic Culture of Saryarka” festival in Karagandy comes to end

The results of the festival “Nomadic culture of Saryarka” dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s Independence were summed up in Karagandy. The event aimed at preserving the national culture and crafts kicked off in the summer. A total of 125 craftspeople took part in it, as well as performers and creative teams. Among the participants is Azamat Bakiya. He is not only a versatile musician, but also a creator of folk instruments. Here he showcases the kernei, an ancient wind instrument that used to support the fighting spirit of warriors during battles.

“People used to say: “Play the kernei and increase the authority of batyr (warrior)”. This ancient Kazakh instrument has been undeservedly forgotten. Now we are reviving the skill of playing the kernei. I made this instrument with my own hands. I think that it is irreplaceable at ceremonies,” Bakiya said.

A craftswoman Gulbarshyn Matniyazova also demonstrated her works at the festival. She has been making clothes from felt for 15 years now. Her outfits are popular even among foreign fashionistas.

“Recently, I have sewn a custom-made dress for a singer from the U.S. Now we are preparing a national costume for an Italian performer who sings the songs by Dimash Kudaibergen. Of late, foreign nationals often order clothes from Kazakh felt,” the needlewoman noted.

The festival organizers are planning to make the event regular and bring craftspeople of the region together every two years.

 

Translation by Saniya Sakenova

Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova