At the crossroads of history and legend stands the Kirgiz epic Manas, a living monument to unity, perseverance and cultural memory. Spanning over 230,000 lines across eight chapters, this heroic saga weaves the story of Manas and his descendants across seven generations, tracing a timeless struggle against adversity.
An Oral Tradition Like No Other
Recognized as one of the Chinese mainland’s three great oral traditions, Manas offers more than folklore—it’s an encyclopedia of Kirgiz life. From border skirmishes to festive rituals, its verses capture daily customs, values and the indomitable spirit of a people.
Meet the Next Guardian: Tuohenali
In the remote reaches of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region’s Akqi County, 31-year-old Tuohenali carries the legacy forward. As the great-grandson of Jusup Mamay—a legendary performer of Manas—he began his journey at age three. Today, after 28 years of immersive training, he aims to ensure “the wind of Manas” blows through every heart.
“My great-grandfather’s voice was like the wind,” says Tuohenali. “I want every listener to feel that same force.”
Why It Matters Today
- Global Connection: In a world of 7.8 billion, oral traditions like Manas remind us of shared roots and universal values.
- Living Heritage: With digital archives and international performances, a younger generation of global citizens is discovering Manas online.
- Cultural Tourism: For digital nomads and travelers, witnessing a live recital in Akqi County offers an immersive dive into Kirgiz history.
As voices echo from ancient campfires to modern stages, the epic of Manas proves that storytelling remains a bridge across cultures and centuries. Through inheritors like Tuohenali, the legend endures—vibrant, evolving and alive.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
