© International Qazaq Kuresi Federation, 2017 |
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| General Information |
Kuresi, also known as Kazakh wrestling, has a place in traditional folklore in Kazakhstan. The wrestlers, known as baluans, are regarded as strong and courageous and depicted as such in epics, poetry and literature. The practice of kuresi teaches younger generations in Kazakhstan about their history and culture. The objective in Kazakh wrestling is to get the opponent’s shoulders on the ground (UNESCO, n.d.). Wrestlers wear a jacket with fabric belt (World Nomad Games, n.d.). Competitions are usually held on holidays and celebrations |
| History/Development |
Traditionally trainers coach young boys who then take part in local contests. These days kuresi in Kazakhstan is a national sport practiced by men and women, up to professional level. International competitions, such as the annual tournament the Kazakhstan Barysy, are broadcasted in many countries (UNESCO, n.d.).UNESCO has noted the influence on the strengthening of relations between communities based on the principles of tolerance, goodwill, and solidarity amongst communities. Kazakh kuresi has been inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016. |
Transmission
(Policies/institutions) |
Transmission of kuresi in Kazakhstan occurs in sports clubs, which may also be affiliated to schools, as well as via master classes run by experienced kuresi wrestlers. The minimum age of learners can be as young as ten. There are no restrictions concerning the background of participants (UNESCO, n.d.). |
| Relevant Organisations |
- International Qazaq Kuresi Federation
http://iqkf.org.kz/?lang=en
- Kazakh Wrestling Federation
http://wrestling.kz/?lang=en |
| Additional Materials |
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| References |
- UNESCO. (n.d.). Kuresi In Kazakhstan. [online] Ich.unesco.org. Available at:
https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/kuresi-in-kazakhstan-01085> [Accessed 1 April 2020].
- World Nomad Games. (n.d.). Kazakh Kuresi, World Nomad Games |
*see also kurash (Uzbekistan) | |
