Hi all,
In the nomadic societies of Central Asia, among the Kyrgyz and the Kazakhs, there existed a social role fulfilled by poets, musicians, and improvisers. They not only created witty punchlines on the spot for the entertainment of the people but also served as mediators between ordinary folk and their rulers. Akyns could say more than others. They could criticise rulers’ decisions and sing about the problems facing common people in the hope of improving their communities.
Akyns still perform in both Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. In the former, however, some have redefined their role over the past several years by joining media organisations. They transform journalistic investigations into poems and songs to bring them to wider audiences. Several have ended up behind bars because of their work.
This week, we discuss the craft of akyns and aitysh, their poetic duels. We look into the history of this art form, its historical functions, and how these have changed during the Soviet era and since the collapse of the USSR. We also examine the social significance of aitysh and the differences between traditional akyns and those who have turned to journalism.
Joining us is Akylai Otkulbek kyzy, a Kyrgyz researcher who focuses on aitysh as a living civic and epistemological practice. She holds a MA degree in International Public Policy from the University of Tsukuba, Japan, and an MA from the OSCE Academy in Bishkek.
In the podcast, we used a fragment of aitysh between Kutman Sadybakasov and Turan Zhumaev.
I hope you will enjoy this one.
Have a great end of the week!
— Agnieszka
