Kazakh Kuresi represents ancient form and style of Kazakh traditional wrestling, essential element of all festive events, celebrations and integral part of modern Kazakhstani national identity. Since ancient times, the beauty of this sports and strength of the hero-wrestlers “Baluans” have been reflected in folk epics, fairy legends, Kazakh literature like the poem of Iliyas Zhansugurov “Kulager” and Gabit Musrepov’s novel “Ulpan”, and archaeological findings.
Wrestling of two opponents is performed on 12m.x 12m. sized mat. The opponents are matched according to their weight category ranging from 60 kg and above 90 kg. All techniques are performed above the waist – wrestlers must fight on foot, making it more difficult. Wrestling on the ground is prohibited. The purpose is to lay the opponent on shoulders. Duration of the match is 5 minutes with extra time of 3 minutes which is offered in case of even number of points.
Evaluation of matches is counted by: a) “Buk” – if the opponent touches the mat with abdomen, knee or both knees; b) “Zhambas” is given for three “Buks” or when the opponent touches the mat with one side of pelvis or both; b) “Zhartylay zhenis” is awarded for the technique when the opponent touches the mat with both shoulders.

Kazakh Kuresi represents major cultural heritage for all people of Kazakhstan. The element is equally open for all people regardless of their age, gender, ethnic, social or religious background. Representing important part of Kazakh culture and history it is harmoniously integrated in modern life of versatile Kazakhstani population. Since the contests bear the spirit of social cohesion, joint celebration and healthy lifestyle, all population of Kazakhstan enjoys watching and participating in national contests and tournaments of Kazakh Kuresi. All contests are accompanied with other forms of traditional and modern martial arts, singing, theatric or other artistic performances involving high-ranking officials, foreign guests, famous actors and musicians. Music and theatric performances as well as decorations reflect different aspects of the ICH of Kazakhstan. The element teaches young generations to respect their own history and culture and aim to be like their hero Baluans – strong and courageous. Most importantly Kazakh Kuresi promotes physically healthy generations. This traditional sports helps to raise strong men called Batyrs that will have positive impact on physical, physiological and demographic health of future generations. Moreover Kazakh Kuresi unites families and communities in rooting, watching and discussing the contests.

Knowledge and skills related to the element are transmitted via: 1. Sports sections – either independent or affiliated to sports schools. Both boys and girls over 10 years old can enroll in the sections that can be found in every region of Kazakhstan. 2. Contests and tournaments. More than 100 tournaments are held in Kazakhstan on annual basis. Competitions are held in five weight categories (up to 60 kg., 70 kg., 80 kg., 90 kg., and over 90 kg.) without any age restrictions. 3. Master classes. Nothing motivates as a vivid example, therefore the most experienced Baluans conduct master classes for children and adults where they show fighting techniques, share their knowledge and experience and talk on the history and development of Kazakh Kuresi in Kazakhstan. 4. Seminars are organized for the purpose of raising the most competent, impartial judges and transmitting their knowledge to the young generation. For judges it is important to take into account not only physiological characteristics of a wrestler but easily operate historic and scientific facts. 5. Popularization via wide media coverage. All major national and international contests, like annual Republican tournament “Kazakhstan Barysy” are broadcasted in more than 100 countries of the world.

The bearers and practitioners are professional wrestlers, trainers, judges that participate in the contests held on local, regional, national and international levels. Since ancient times, Kazakh Kuresi has been widely practiced in every community and village. Local trainers coached young boys the basics of traditional wrestling. Then they took part in contests organized during festive celebrations like Nauryz. Nowadays Kazakh Kuresi is officially registered as a national sports that is practiced by men and women on professional level. Sports sections are offered in all regions of Kazakhstan. Communities and state agencies involved in safeguarding and nominating the element include National Kazakh Kuresi Federation, Kazakhstan Barysy Fund forf Kazakh Kuresi Development, local communities and clubs in relationship with Kazakh Kuresi Federation.

Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

2016