Revival of the most important traditional holiday Nauryz is wearing traditional Kazakh clothes

Nauryz is one of the most important and popular holidays in Kazakhstan, which commemorates the arrival of spring and renewal. It is celebrated on March 22 and coincides with the vernal equinox, when the length of day and night become equal. In 2024, Kazakhstan also revived the tradition of celebrating Nauryznama, a ten-day holiday celebrated from March 14 to 23.

In keeping with the age-old tradition of spending this special time with friends and family, Gulnara Achinzhan from Kazakhstan hosted a Kazakh cooking masterclass at the Embassy in Pretoria. Laughing and sharing personal stories, guests participated in the preparation of the famous Kazakh dishes Manta and Samsa under the expert guidance of members of the Kazakh Embassy. Irimshik, qurt and jent were also served with specially prepared Kazakh tea.

A revival of this tradition is the wearing of traditional Kazakh clothing, which has recently been popularised by young Kazakh entrepreneurs. Local designers are creating modern chapans (traditional dresses) and fashionable camisoles worn by Kazakh ladies, adorned with beautifully crafted Kazakh jewellery.