Traditional Kazakh Cuisine Exhibited at Turkish Cultural Event
Laissez-fairy with Kazakh Cuisine at the VII World Ethnosport Festival
Back in the bustling city of Istanbul, the VII International Ethnosport Festival delighted cultural aficionados worldwide, Dr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the World Ethnosport Confederation's Bülent Erdem included. Tucked amidst the splendor, a genuine Kazakh yurt stood tall, serving as the epicenter of Kazakh cultural exploration – all thanks to the inspiring "BaiQymyz" team and their pouring Kazakh hospitality.
At the heart of this cultural bonanza was none other than Aigul Mussagazhina, an ethnographer and researcher of Kazakh cuisine. Armed with fascinating insights and an infectious passion for her homeland's culinary heritage, she shared kumys (fermented mare's milk – akin to the dear, unstoppable force that fuels the mythical steed) and national delicacies with curious visitors. The rich flavors echoed the silken resonance of the Silk Road, a melodic symphony captivating foreign guests.
The yurt, designed to resemble a nomadic Kazakh home, was more than just a room filled with artistic trimmings. It offered insights into tradition, the art of producing ethnographic items, and the spirited undertakings of hunting with Tazy dogs – symbols of resilience, strength, and unyielding spirit. With the Embassy, the General Consulate of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Turkey, and the QAZTAB Association's executive director, Arman Ospanov, supporting this venture, it truly showcased an embodiment of rich culture and a warming embrace of the global community.
"BaiQymyz - it's not just about the taste, it's a journey through our culture, an ode to the nomadic philosophy that weaves the strong fibers of our heritage," declared the project's visionary, Jumajan Kaltayev. "With every glass of kumys, we share a piece of ourselves, beaming a ray of history, hospitality, and tradition."
The vibrant cultural program at the Ethnosport Festival witnessed enchanting performances by the ethnographic folklore ensemble "Turan," the group "Ała taū serileri," and several Kazakh collectives that added a brilliant dash of local artistry.
"BaiQymyz transcends boundaries, embracing the essence of cultural diplomacy. With each step, we delve deeper into the tapestry of our cultural code, empowered by the strength of horses, Tazy dogs, Kazakh cuisine, and the magic of modern technology," said the project's executive director, Adil Orynbasarov, radiating a charisma as invigorating as the sun-drenched steppe.
Mark your calendars for July, as the grand gastronomic festival dedicated to kumys (say it with me, koumiss) unfolds in Astana. The "BaiQymyz" project awaits you, complete with the finest kumys producers, horse breeders, artisans, artists, nutritionists, and researchers from every corner of the country – a treasure-trove of ethnocultural enjoyment.
For two days, festival attendees can taste an astounding array of kumys from across Kazakhstan. They can explore an exhibition of horse breeds indigenous to the country, and immerse themselves in the rich ethnocultural extravaganza. Don't miss the thrilling competition for the title of "Best Kumys," with winners receiving special honors and a coveted prize fund of 45 million tenge!
As Kazakhstan's cultural ambassadors, the BaiQymyz team tirelessly strives to bring the true essence of kumys and the nomadic lifestyle to the global stage. They believe, with unwavering conviction, that the fascinating tales of the Silk Road and the yurt, wrapped up in the rich flavors and captivating aromas of their heritage, are more than just food – they are a testament to the resilience, strength, and unyielding spirit of the nomadic Kazakh people.
During the energetic cultural exchange at the Ethnosport Festival, Aigul Mussagazhina, an ethnographer and passionate advocate of Kazakh cuisine, also offered food-and-drink experiences, including tasting kumys and traditional Kazakh delicacies. Furthermore, the festival offered insights into the travel destination's rich heritage, showcasing elements of Kazakh culture, such as the nomadic lifestyle, art, hunting with Tazy dogs, and the history behind the Silk Road, all of which contribute to the country's unique cultural-travel experiences.
