The fifth World Nomad Games have commenced in Astana, Kazakhstan, offering a vibrant celebration of Central Asia’s cultural and sporting traditions. Dubbed the "Great Gathering on the Steppe," this event unites communities from across inner Asia to showcase a captivating mix of ancient sports, cultural practices, and traditional arts.
Often compared to a blend of the Highland Games and the Mongolian Naadam festival, the World Nomad Games provide a glimpse into what the Olympics might have looked like under Genghis Khan. The games feature an array of traditional sports, such as horseback wrestling and strongman contests, alongside displays of Kazakh cuisine, attire, and epic storytelling. The event aims to preserve and celebrate nomadic culture amidst the challenges of modernization, globalization, and climate change.
The World Nomad Games are held every two years in different locations, with the 2026 edition likely returning to Kyrgyzstan, the venue of the inaugural event in 2014. This year’s festivities are set to conclude on September 13.
Opening Ceremony Shines Bright
The opening ceremony on September 8 was a visual feast, featuring 3,000 athletes from 89 countries parading before Central Asia’s political elite. The performance illustrated the history of the Kazakh steppe, from ancient Scythian warriors to the Golden Horde and the Kazakh khanate. The arena was transformed into a symbolic yurt, reflecting the traditional gatherings of nomadic tribes.
Kokpar: The Thrill of Horseback Rugby
A highlight of the Games is kokpar (also known as kok buru, ulak tartysh, or buzkashi), a thrilling sport that resembles rugby on horseback, but with a headless goat carcass as the ball. This fiercely competitive game, often resulting in injuries, sees players striving to score by placing the carcass in a ring. In a dramatic final, the Kazakh team triumphed over Kyrgyzstan, cheered on by thousands of spectators.
Traditional Eagle Hunting
Eagle hunting, a rare and endangered sport, also features prominently. Expert hunters (berkutchi) from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia demonstrate their skill in training golden eagles for hunting foxes, rabbits, and wolves. This ancient practice requires years of dedication and reflects the deep cultural roots of the region.
Horseback Wrestling and More
Horseback wrestling (audaryspak) is a central attraction, with matches taking place in a 15-meter arena and divided into weight categories. The goal is to unseat or push the opponent out of the circle. Other wrestling styles, including Kazakh, Turkish, Tatar, and Kyrgyz variations, also include female competitors. Archery, both on foot and horseback, highlights Central Asia’s martial heritage, while mas-wrestling, a form of stick tug-of-war from Yakutiya, adds to the diverse sporting roster.
Celebrating Nomadic Culture
The World Nomad Games extend beyond sports to celebrate nomadic culture. The Ethno-aul, a village of yurts, craft shops, and eateries, hosts reenactments and performances of traditional music and folklore. Notably, akim (bards) perform epic poetry accompanied by the dombra, a traditional Kazakh lute.
Preserving Traditional Crafts
The event also highlights traditional craftsmanship. Master artisans, including Bulbul Kapkyzy, showcase their skills in weaving, yurt-making, and other traditional crafts. Kapkyzy, a Kazakh from Mongolia, has devoted over 45 years to preserving these arts.
Astana’s Modern Contrast
Astana’s futuristic architecture provides a striking contrast to the ancient traditions celebrated at the Games. Renowned for its modern design by architects like Norman Foster, the city is a marvel of contemporary architecture set against the steppe, despite being one of the coldest capitals in the world.
The World Nomad Games not only emphasize the rich cultural heritage of Central Asia but also bring together a global audience to celebrate and preserve these vibrant traditions.