The younger generation has already forgotten many holidays and traditions of the Kazakh people. One of them – “Kursak toy” or “Kursak shashu” – is one of the oldest holidays of the Kazakh people.
This tradition can be called a family holiday, which is celebrated in honor of a pregnant woman. This holiday implies a joyful event in the family associated with the expectation of a child who will be born soon.
When the daughter-in-law (kelin) became pregnant, usually the wives of her husband’s relatives were the first to find out about this joyful event and informed the mother-in-law. In gratitude, the daughter-in-law’s mother-in-law gave them “suyinshi” (a gift for the good news). After that, the happy mother-in-law invited guests home, the daughter-in-law’s mother (kudagi), relatives, neighbors etc.
A family holiday began, a big dastarkhan was covered, where experienced moms gave advice to the future mom, shared their experience and gave instructions. On this day, the “shashu” ceremony was performed, where women of venerable age showered the expectant mother with sweets, while saying good wishes. “Shashu” symbolizes the pouring rain of abundance, wealth and a sweet life.
Kazakhs are a very superstitious people and therefore there was a sign according to which it was impossible to call a woman pregnant in order to avoid the evil eye. They called the pregnant woman: “waiting for replenishment” – it is like «eating for two» and «expecting».
One of the holidays, which is grandiosely celebrated by Kazakhs today, is Nauryz. It is celebrated for 3 days – March 21, 22, 23. This holiday is considered a New Year, the beginning of the season of growth and prosperity. Nauryz is celebrated by more than 20 nations and nationalities around the world.
In Kazakhstan, both local and international holidays are celebrated these days, such as:
- January 1st and 2nd: New Year
- January 7th: Orthodox Christmas
- March 8th: International Women`s Day
- March 21st, 22nd, 23rd: Nauryz
- May 1st: Kazakhstan People’s Unity Day
- May 7th: Defender of the Motherland Day
- May 9th: Victory Day
- July 6th: Capital Day
- August 30th: Constitution Day
- December 1st: First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Day
- December 16th and 17th: Independence Day
