«We Honor the Traditions of Our Fathers»

On August 22, 2024, the Central District Children’s Library held an educational program «Revival of Customs and Traditions» on the topic «We Honor the Traditions of Our Fathers» («Kulak Tesu»).

As one of the famous Kazakh proverbs says, «Kyzdyn Zholy Zhinishke» (The girl’s road is narrow). The meaning is that a young girl does not have much time to play and have fun. Based on this, the girl’s parents always tried to make her childhood happy, to spoil their daughter.

At the age of 9-10, and sometimes earlier, Kazakhs performed «Kulak Tesu» for girls — ear piercing for earrings. The tool was a silver awl or two grains of millet, which were used to squeeze the earlobe from both sides. Of course, the wound-hole hurt, and they threaded silk threads or special threads, which were woven from the wool of a red dog, into it. It was believed that dog wool had healing properties, preventing the wound from becoming inflamed. In its significance, the custom of kulak tesu for girls was equal to the rite of circumcision for boys. A big toy was also celebrated on the occasion of kulak tesu: a rich dastarkhan was laid, horse races and other entertainment for guests were often organized.

The children learned about the origin of the tradition, its meaning in ancient times, actively discussed the symbolism of ear piercing in Kazakh culture and examined traditional jewelry. At the end of the event, the children took part in a discussion of modern views on the tradition of «Kulak tesu» and its role in the present day.

The goals of the event are to introduce the participants to the tradition of ear piercing for Kazakh girls, its history and meaning; to show how this tradition is connected with the history and culture of Kazakhstan; to awaken interest in national customs and traditions; to promote the preservation and transmission of cultural heritage to future generations.