The Kazakhs are a Turkic ethnic group native to Kazakhstan, where they make up over two-thirds of the population. Historically nomadic, their identity and culture are deeply rooted in the Central Asian steppe.
Nomadic Heritage: For centuries, they were nomadic herders living in yurts (portable felt tents) and moving with their herds of horses, sheep, and camels.
Hospitality: Welcoming guests (konakasy) is a fundamental pillar of their society. It is considered offensive to refuse an invitation to eat.
Gastronomy: The traditional diet is based on meat (especially lamb and horse) and dairy. The national dish is besbarmak (boiled meat with noodles, traditionally eaten with hands).
Music: They use traditional instruments like the dombra (a two-stringed lute) and the kobyz
Language: They speak Kazakh, a Turkic language from the Kipchak branch. While Russian is co-official and widely used, there is a growing movement to strengthen the use of Kazakh.
Religion: They are predominantly Sunni Muslims (Hanafi school). Their religious practice often incorporates elements of pre-Islamic traditions like Tengrism and shamanism.
Photo Gallery: © Montse Sagarra / Mongolia - 2024
Extended info about Kazakhs People