CULTURE
Language
The official language in Kazakstan is Kazak. It is a turkic-based
dialect. Russian is still used in many parts of Kazakstan. In
fact, most business transactions take place in Russian. Part of
this is because Kazak was outlawed as a language during the Soviet
Era. Kazak is missing many up to date technological terms because
of this. Often in conversation, they will insert Russian to fill
in the gaps in Kazak
Holidays
Kazaks love to celebrate holidays and special occasions. During
these times, Kazaks often dress in their traditional Kazak clothes.
Villages or city neighborhoods will set up yurts nearby where
they host elaborate meals. Kazaks will frequently go to visit
friends and family, bearing gifts of flowers and candy. Games,
horseracing, singing contests and dancing are also part of the
traditions associated with celebrations
Hospitality and the "Dahsterhahn"
Kazaks also love having guests and are generous in their hospitality.
There is a saying, "Kazaks' hearts are like the steppes -
wide, kind and generous." Regardless of the hour of arrival
of the guests, Kazak women will immediately set to work to prepare
a "dahsterhahn" - a table full of food. If guests arrive
and the table remains empty, the host is shamed. At a minimum,
each guest must sit down and have tea. Having tea includes bread,
fruits & nuts, cookies and sweets.
