Celebrants in Mongolia were applauded by Toqaev on the occasion of Naadam.
Mongolia's Naadam Festival Celebrates Traditions and Strengthens International Relations
The Naadam Festival, a significant cultural event in Mongolia, is an annual celebration that has its roots deeply embedded in the country's history and identity. This three-day event, colloquially known as "three manly games," showcases the country's martial and nomadic heritage through the traditional sports of wrestling, horse racing, and archery.
Originating over 2,000 years ago, Naadam was initially a military and community event, with sports and parades training soldiers and celebrating victories. Its earliest mentions can be found in the 13th-century Secret History of the Mongols. By the 17th century, religious elements were integrated, and by 1921, it evolved into an annual festival commemorating Mongolia's revolution and national independence.
Wrestling, the most celebrated sport, symbolises strength and endurance, with matches having no time limit and involving grappling until one man touches the ground with something other than his feet. Horse racing showcases the skill and bravery of young jockeys who race over long distances across the steppes, often accompanied by traditional chants honoring horse gods. Archery contests, involving both men and women, use traditional bows and unique whistling arrows aimed at reusable targets, reflecting ancient hunting and warfare skills.
Naadam is not just a sports event but also a community gathering that emphasises respect for nature and nomadic heritage, fostering national pride, unity, and cultural continuity. In 2010, UNESCO recognised Naadam as a vital expression of Mongolian identity and tradition, placing it on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
In addition to its cultural significance, the Naadam Festival also plays a role in Mongolia's international relations. The festival's high profile and unique displays of heritage contribute to Mongolia's cultural diplomacy. The event attracts tourists, promoting Mongolian culture abroad, and serves as a symbol of sovereignty and national pride that underlines Mongolia’s distinct identity on the global stage.
Recently, the visit of the Kazakh Foreign Minister to Mongolia has further strengthened the friendly relations between the two nations. The Kazakh Foreign Minister's visit is an opportunity to enhance the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and Mongolia, with potential collaborations and mutual benefits under discussion. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Head of State of Kazakhstan, expressed confidence that friendly relations between Kazakhstan and Mongolia will continue to strengthen.
President Khurelsukh Ukhnaagiin of Mongolia was congratulated by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the occasion of the Naadam Festival. The Kazakh Foreign Minister's visit is expected to contribute to the continued growth of friendly relations between Kazakhstan and Mongolia, reflecting the mutual respect and strategic partnership between the two nations. The Naadam Festival, with its values of kindness and mercy, celebrates these values and fosters a spirit of unity and cooperation between nations.
References: [1] https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1338 [2] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Naadam [3] https://www.culturalheritage.mn/en/cultural-heritage/intangible-cultural-heritage/naadam [4] https://www.mongolian.net/article/20210712012201.html
The Naadam Festival, being an annual celebration in Mongolia, encapsulates the traditional sports of wrestling, horse racing, and archery, showcasing the country's martial and nomadic heritage. Moreover, the Festival serves as a significant platform for cultural diplomacy, attracting tourists and underlining Mongolia's unique identity on the global stage.
