Olzhas suleimenov

Olzhas Suleimenov was born in Almaty. After leaving school Olzhas entered geological faculty of Almaty University. Last years of his studying at the university he devoted part of the time to work in geological survey expeditions. Being in the field the young geologist did not only explore the deposits of minerals. He also learnt the Kazakh steppe, fantastic canyons in Mangystau and the landscapes of Central Kazakhstan, the foothills of the Zailyisky Alatau, nearby oases and deserts. He studied people working and creating new life on this ancient and eternally young land. This experience and knowledge of the surrounding world was reflected vividly in his future poetic works. At that time the first publications of his poetry appeared in public.

In 1958 Olzhas Suleimenov entered the Gorky Literary Institute. In 1961 he published his stupendous poem devoted to the flight of the first man into cosmic space. Its name is "Earth, Admire the Man ".

Olzhas is a Kazakh poet of world significance. Even though he writes in Russian, this does not make him less of a Kazakh poet. One can see in everything he writes the ideas and soul of a nomad. His strength and his roots are in Kazakhstan. His verses and poems, articles and speeches are closely connected with the joys and sufferings of our people. He is not only a poet. This man stood at the beginning of a wide social movement for the closing of the Semipalatinsk nuclear site. Millions of people all over the world followed him.

Customs of hospitality

The national features of Kazakh people are expressed brightly and perfectly in traditions and customs of hospitality. This ceremony is called dastarkhan. There is an interesting custom to prepare a hearty meal for a visitor. To receive any traveler is an ancient Kazakh tradition. The guest is always given delicious and tasty food. The host gives a specially prepared ram's head to the guest of honor.

Then a large dish with meat is brought in. It is put just in the middle of the table. The meat is served as a whole. In the guests' presence the host cuts it into small pieces, and bones with the rest of meat are distributed among the visitors.

A low round little table serves as a traditional dinner table for the Kazakhs. The guests usually sit on felt rugs. The most honorable place is given to the senior and most respected visitors.

Food is always served on beautiful plates and dishes. Kumis was poured in special cups. Now for this purpose porcelain cups are used. Large dinner dishes are very popular.

Tea takes a special place during the feast. It is made in a special porcelain teapot. Boiled water is poured from a samovar. Traditionally people drink tea adding cream or milk. The process of tea drinking was always connected with ancient traditions.

Dastarkhan is not only the tradition of a feast, but also a whole philosophy of hospitality, family and public etiquette. The main essence and meaning of hospitality rituals is to keep up the unity and traditions of a friendly Kazakh family.