They are rooted in Turko-Mongol traditions and layers of pre-Islamic beliefs (Tengrism), now intertwined with Islamic elements. These rituals are not merely celebrations; they are social mechanisms for strengthening kinship ties, regulating economic relations between families, and reinforcing tribal order.
1. Proposal and Agreement (Kudalyk / Kuda Tushuu)
The first stage begins with the elders of the groom's family visiting the bride's house. Following initial negotiations and agreement, the Kalym (bride price) is determined. In ethnography, Kalym is classified as "bride price"—a payment from the groom's family to the bride's family. It is not an act of "purchasing" a woman, but rather a sign of social commitment, compensation for the loss of labor from the bride's family, and a means of legitimizing the new union. This historical custom plays a vital role in reproducing kinship structures in nomadic societies.
2. Farewell to the Bride (Kyz Uzatuu)
One of the most emotional stages is the bride's farewell (Kyz Uzatuu). The bride's family hosts a separate banquet to escort their daughter to the groom's home. During this ceremony, traditional songs (often centered on themes of sorrow at leaving the family) are performed. These are examples of "lament songs" in Central Asian cultures, representing the emotional separation from the paternal family and the transition to a new one.
3. Bride’s Arrival at the Groom’s Home (Törgö kirmek / Kelin Tushuu)
Upon the bride's arrival at the groom's home, welcoming rituals are performed. The groom's mother or senior women of the family welcome the bride with milk (a symbol of blessing and purity) and bread (a symbol of abundance). In some regions, the bride's entry is accompanied by symbolic customs, such as crossing the threshold and receiving prayers of blessing.
4. Unveiling (Bet Ashar)
Bet Ashar is one of the most important symbolic wedding rituals in Kyrgyz and Kazakh culture. In this ceremony, the bride's face, which until then has been covered by a veil, is revealed during the performance of a ritual musical piece by an Akyn (bard) or Komuzchu (musician). In this performance, the bride is introduced to the elders of the groom's family, and advice regarding respect, family responsibilities, and married life is offered to her. At the end, the veil is symbolically lifted, and gifts are exchanged.
Betashar was inscribed as an independent cultural element on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024 under the official title “Betashar, traditional wedding ritual.”
5. Wedding Feast (Toy)
The main wedding celebration (Toy) is held with the broad participation of relatives and friends. This event includes traditional music (Komuz, epic and romantic songs), traditional food (such as Beshbarmak), ritual games (wrestling and horse racing), and the ritual of gifting the bride (Körümdük). This celebration may last for several days and plays a central role in redefining the bride's status within the new family.