Articles by Aruzhan Ualikhanova

ASTANA — As the New Year approaches, Astana and Almaty are brimming with festive events to ring in 2025. Kazakhstan’s official New Year holiday from Jan. 1 to Jan. 4 is the perfect time to plan your holiday celebrations. Whether you are seeking thrilling acrobatic feats, enchanting performances, or intimate concerts, there is something for…

ASTANA — After a busy workweek, unwind this weekend by attending inspiring concerts, thought-provoking exhibitions and captivating spectacles to immerse yourself in the pre-holiday winter atmosphere. The Astana Times editorial team has curated a list of must-see events that you can experience with friends and family, from enchanting performances to thrilling visual art displays. Astana …

ASTANA – Tengiz and Kashagan oilfields have been key drivers of Kazakhstan’s oil production, with Tengiz contributing 25.9 million tons and Kashagan producing 15.8 million tons in the first 11 months of 2024, representing 97.9% and 92.8% of last year’s output, respectively, the Kazakh Energy Minister Almassadam Satkaliyev reported at a government meeting on Dec.…

ASTANA — The majestic mountains of Bayanaul have long attracted travelers with their beauty and mystery. However, not everyone knows that these lands conceal a rich legacy of ancient Turkic culture. Scattered across the region, stone sculptures known as balbals silently stand as witnesses to history, preserving the memory of the beliefs, rituals and way…

ASTANA — The Naz State Dance Theater celebrated its 25th anniversary with the premiere of “Aldar Kose,” a choreographic performance that beautifully combines traditional Kazakh dance with contemporary movement, at Erkegali Rahmadiyev State Academic Philharmonic on Nov. 22. Aldar Kose, one of Kazakhstan’s most beloved folk characters, is often compared to Robin Hood. The clever…

ASTANA — Kazakhstan celebrates the 100th anniversary of Nagimbek Nurmukhamedov, a distinguished figure in Soviet and Kazakh visual arts, with a series of events dedicated to his life and work.  Early years and works  Born in 1924 in the Bayanaul district of Pavlodar Region, Nurmukhamedov faced a difficult childhood. Losing his father at the age…

ASTANA — Recent archaeological endeavors across Central Asia have unearthed remarkable findings that shed light on the region’s rich historical tapestry. From ancient burial sites to significant cultural monuments, these discoveries highlight the ongoing efforts to preserve and understand our shared heritage. Burial of ancient warrior in the Turkistan Region Archaeologists have discovered a unique…

ASTANA — The camera captured Tien Shan brown bears in the Zhongar-Alatau State National Nature Park. This footage was published on the Instagram page of Kazakhstan’s Forestry and Wildlife Committee on Oct. 3, drawing attention to the issue of rare species conservation. The bear is listed in both the International Red Book and Kazakhstan’s Red…

ASTANA — Local designers participated in the Sandwich of Identity presentation at the Global Fashioning Assembly 2024, supported by the Creative Industries Alliance of Qazaqstan, the Born Nomad business incubator and the TransforNation Public Foundation, on Oct. 9 in Astana.  The Global Fashioning Assembly 2024 is an international platform that brings together local fashion communities…

ASTANA – Research into ancient cities in Kazakhstan continues to unveil new chapters of history. One city that has drawn particular attention from scholars is Asanas, one of the largest urban centers of the Golden Horde era, located in the Kyzylorda region. Archaeological excavations and historical documents offer a fresh perspective on its significance in…

ASTANA — Recent archaeological discoveries across Kazakhstan’s regions, from the Karatau Mountains caves to the East Kazakhstan Region valleys, have unearthed valuable artifacts and relics. These findings offer fresh insights into the early history and cultural heritage of these diverse areas.  For readers interested in more archaeological findings, The Astana Times has previously published a…

ASTANA — Nestled in the northernmost reaches of Kazakhstan, Petropavl sits proudly on the right bank of the Ishim River. This city is distinguished by its unique geographical location, rich historical legacy and distinctive architectural character. The Astana Times offers a weekend guide for those eager to explore the heart of the North Kazakhstan Region.…

ASTANA — Get ready for an exciting weekend of culture and entertainment in Astana and Almaty. From captivating concerts and vibrant festivals to immersive exhibitions, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars for Aug. 24-25 and experience a weekend of unforgettable events. Astana  Kazakh folk music concert on Aug. 24 The folk music ensemble Saryarka, renowned…

ASTANA — This weekend, both Astana and Almaty will host a variety of dynamic events. From captivating art exhibitions and sports tournaments to enchanting operas and charitable activities, these cities promise a weekend filled with unforgettable experiences. Ready to fill your weekend with exciting activities?  Join us as we uncover the vibrant highlights of what’s…

ASTANA — Located in the eastern expanse of Kazakhstan, Semei, also known as Semipalatinsk, was founded more than three centuries ago and best represents Kazakhstan’s historical, cultural and natural richness. Let’s get to know the charming Semei, the heart of the Abai Region. The origins and history of Semei In 1718, Semei was established on…

ASTANA — The Aksu River Canyon is the deepest canyon in Central Asia and the hallmark of Aksu-Zhabagly, the very first nature reserve of Kazakhstan and the pearl of the Turkistan Region. Tourists who have visited this breathtaking place often compare it to ‘the lost world’ described in Arthur Conan Doyle’s novel. The natural landscapes…

ASTANA — Born from the battlefield and steeped in tradition, tenge ilu, or ‘picking up coins,’ is a captivating Kazakh equestrian sport. What began as a training exercise for warriors, honing their agility and speed, has evolved into a beloved spectacle at weddings and celebrations, showcasing the timeless skills of Kazakh horsemen.  How tenge ilu…

ASTANA — The Kazakh musical ensemble Saz&Soul has charmed American audiences with a spectacular performance at Warehouse Live in Houston, Texas, on June 25, reported the Qazaq concert’s press service. Known for hosting legendary artists like Prince, Drake, and Adele, Warehouse Live provided the perfect backdrop for Saz&Soul’s U.S. debut. The concert featured a rich…

ASTANA — The Almaty Theatre will present the premiere of the ballet triptych “Sacred Dances” on July 11 and 12. Choreographed by Mukaram Avakhri and performed by soloists of the Astana Ballet, this production explores spiritual connections through contemporary dance, blending cultural and historical themes. The first part, “Wedding,” set to Igor Stravinsky’s music, explores…

ASTANA — ​The grand opening of the “Uniting Art: Kazakhstan-India” exhibition, aimed at fostering bilateral cultural ties between Kazakhstan and India, took place at the Presidential Administration Center of Kazakhstan on June 6, reported Kazinform. The Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center organized the event at the Embassy of India in Kazakhstan in collaboration with the Nemalievichi…

ASTANA — Gauhar Bisengalieva, a Kazakh metamodern artist, presented her “Transformation and Rebirth” exhibition at Sal Seri art gallery in Astana on May 15. Gauhar Bisengalieva began her creative journey in the music industry, working as a manager for the West Kazakhstan Orchestra. Immersed in music since childhood, this early influence significantly shaped her artistic…

ASTANA — The Almaty Museum hosted the “Murager” (The Heir) exhibition, paying tribute to the renowned artist Abilkhan Kasteev on his 120th anniversary from April 5-14. Over 70 pieces of painting, graphics, and decorative art by students and graduates of Temirbek Zhurgenov National Academy of Arts were presented, reported VecherKz.  Abilkhan Kasteev played a fundamental…

ASTANA – As spring arrives, nature gears up for a season of change and awakening. In the corners of Markakol Reserve, one of nature’s iconic symbols, the brown bear, goes through its unique wake-up routine after hibernation, reports Kazinform, citing the reserve’s press service. Bears at Markakol Reserve snooze for around five to six and…

ASTANA — A 21-year-old Kazakh writer and comic author Ilyas Yusupzhanov presented a comic book about the founders of the Kazakh Khanate, Sultans Kerey and Zhanibek, at the National Academic Library in Astana on April 23,  reported Kazinform. Ilyas Yusupzhanov is one of Kazakhstan’s youngest writers. He has published four books and a comic book,…

ASTANA—The Astana Eurasian Book Fair 2024, the seventh international book fair with an extensive five-day program, kicked off at the Congress Center in Astana on April 17 and will run until April 21  The event brought together approximately 70 companies from countries such as China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, Spain, Uzbekistan, and Türkiye. representing publishing, book…