5th World Nomad Games Commences in Astana with Grand Opening

The highly anticipated 5th World Nomad Games launched with a grand ceremony in Astana, uniting 2,500 athletes from 89 nations. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the historical and cultural significance of nomadic civilizations. The event promotes traditional sports and global unity, featuring competitions in 21 traditional sports.

With a grand spectacle, the 5th World Nomad Games officially began in Astana, as confirmed by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in India. The event, hosted at Astana Arena, boasts the participation of over 2,500 athletes and countless guests from 89 nations. It stands as a beacon for the rich cultural heritage of nomadic civilizations and their traditional sports.

The opening ceremony, graced by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, saw children representing Kazakhstan's diverse ethnic groups presenting the national flag, followed by the national anthem. Delegations from around the globe paraded with pride, showcasing the diversity of participants hailing from Asia, Europe, North and South America, Africa, and Australia.

In his address, President Tokayev expressed gratitude to international leaders, esteemed guests, and the athletes for their participation. He underscored the historical impact of nomadic cultures: 'The Kazakh land is home to historical icons like Al-Farabi and Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, who greatly influenced science and humanism. Our ancestors built majestic medieval cities in the Great Steppe like Otyrar and Turkestan,' he said.

Emphasizing the event's unifying nature, President Tokayev proclaimed the games as a symbol of global solidarity and mutual respect through sport: 'Kazakhstan is renowned as a land of peace and coexistence. I am confident that the Nomad Games will foster international unity.'

Over the course of the games from September 9th to 13th, athletes will compete in traditional sports such as horseback archery, martial arts, falconry, and wrestling, providing a global stage for cultural exchange.

Distinguished international guests, including leaders from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and representatives from global organizations like UNESCO, attended the opening ceremony, embellishing the event with their presence.

The evening culminated with a breathtaking cultural performance that took the audience through Kazakhstan's storied past, from the Tengri era to its modern-day evolution. The event emphasized themes of harmony with nature, respect for the land, and shared global responsibility.

The World Nomad Games, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, have evolved into the largest event celebrating traditional sports, reinforcing ties of friendship and peace amid a blend of cultural diversity.

(With inputs from agencies.)