Identifying Top Multi-Choice Performers in Three Age Brackets: NERUNGRI's Competition
In the heart of Yakutia, the Republic of Sakha in Siberia, the Mogl Uras (Moҕol Urasa) - Tюсюлгэ (түһүлгэ) performers of the ancient epic Oloңho are keeping the flame of cultural heritage burning. As part of the annual Ысыах Olonho contest, these skilled storytellers and singers gather to celebrate, compete, and preserve the epic tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Oloңho, one of the longest epic narratives in the world, combines mythology, history, folklore, and moral teachings. It is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Sakha people, and the Mogl Uras, or epic singers/storytellers, are responsible for mastering and transmitting this priceless heritage. Their performances involve poetic singing, ritualistic elements, and a deep understanding of the epic's cultural significance.
The Ысыах Olonho contest, held annually as part of the traditional Yakut summer festival, is a celebration of Oloңho performance. Elite Mogl Uras from across Yakutia present their mastery of epic recitation, promoting the preservation, revitalization, and public appreciation of the Oloңho tradition.
The contest plays a vital role in maintaining the oral epic tradition alive by encouraging continuous practice and learning. Performers are recognized for their skill, creativity, and fidelity to tradition. The event strengthens cultural identity and fosters pride among the Yakut people, with younger generations inspired to learn from and emulate these masters.
The Ысыах Olonho contest also raises awareness about Yakut culture globally, bridging the gap between the past and the present, and enlightening the community about their history and identity. This year, over 200 people are participating in the "Footsteps of the Ancient Oloңho Epic" contest, with the youngest performer being just nine years old, and the oldest 90.
The Mogl Uras - Tюсюлгэ performers serve as keepers of Yakut heritage, language, and worldview. Their narration contains elements of ancient Yakut cosmology, ethics, and communal memory, and their performances are considered a sacred act that revitalizes cultural pride and continuity.
Yakutia's Head, Aisen Nikolaev, congratulated the participants and stated that each year he witnesses active participation from youth, children, and various districts in the Tюсюлгэ Oloңhosut performances. Roman Shegelnyak, the Head of the Neryungri District, assured that "we will organize our national holiday at the highest level, leaving no one indifferent and ensuring everyone enjoys these days in a wonderful mood."
The Mogl Uras - Tюсюлгэ performers of Oloңho are indeed a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Yakut culture. By embodying the ancient narratives and performing them with profound skill and reverence, they play a crucial role in sustaining the living heritage of the Sakha people. The Ысыах Olonho contest serves as a vibrant stage where their art is celebrated, ensuring that the epic tradition continues to inspire and unite the community both within Yakutia and beyond.
The Mogl Uras - Tюсюлгэ performers showcase their profound skills in the Ысыах Olonho contest, contributing to the celebration of Yakutia's rich cultural heritage and the promotion of sports like artistic storytelling and singing. This year, over 200 participants ranging from nine to ninety years old take part, demonstrating the wide-ranging appeal and ongoing relevance of the Oloňho epic tradition in sports and cultural activities.
