ASTANA – Kazakhstan celebrates 190 years of Birzhan-sal Kozhagululy, a prominent poet and aitys artist, which refers to the Kazakh literary tradition of impromptu. He emerged as a leading voice against the prevailing patriarchal customs and violence perpetuated by local governors in the Kazakh steppe of the late 19th century. Portrait of Birzhan-sal painted by Kazakh artist Abilkhan Kasteev.
Kozhagululy, commonly referred to as simply Birzhan-sal, was born in 1834 in the Enbekshi district of the Akmola Region. The suffix “sal” in his name signifies his status as a beloved entertainer of the people. From an early age, Birzhan-sal was raised by his grandfather Kozhagul, who took him under his wing.
Birzhan-sal faced no struggle growing up and declared himself “Birzhan of Kozhagul,” as he matured. Renowned for his outstanding vocal range as a traditional singer with , he travelled from village to village gathering talented youth to his side. His participation in the aitys competions also displayed his gift for improvisation and a sharp mind.
Aitys is a Kazakh literary tradition centered on improvised oral poetry spoken or sung to the accompaniment of traditional musical instruments – the Kazakh dombra. Two performers, akyns, compete with one other to improvise verses on topical themes in a battle of wits that alternates between humorous ripostes and penetrating philosophical reflections. In 2015, aitys was inscribed in United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultu.