photo: Kazinform
Every year on September 23, Kyrgyzstan honors a deeply significant occasion: State Language Day.
More than a mere calendar date, this day symbolizes the nation’s identity, cultural richness, and unity by paying tribute to the Kyrgyz language-a vital pillar of the country’s history, traditions, and collective spirit, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.
A Milestone in National Sovereignty
The choice of September 23 holds historical importance. On this day in 1989, the Kyrgyz Soviet Socialist Republic (SSR) enacted the Law “On the State Language,” officially recognizing Kyrgyz as the country’s state language. This landmark move was a key step toward Kyrgyzstan’s sovereignty and independence, igniting a resurgence of national pride and cultural revival. Over the decades, the Kyrgyz language has remained a cornerstone of the nation’s statehood and autonomy despite evolving political landscapes.
Preserving Cultural Heritage Through Language
The Kyrgyz language is a living repository of the nation’s rich cultural traditions. It preserves epic oral storytelling, notably the legendary Manas epic, alongside a wealth of folk wisdom encapsulated in proverbs, sayings, lyrical songs, and tales. Fluency in Kyrgyz provides more than a means of communication-it offers insight into the country’s history, philosophy, and worldview.
At the same time, Kyrgyzstan embraces its multilingual character. Russian, which holds official status, continues to play a significant role in fostering interethnic dialogue, education, and cultural exchange. State Language Day is also an occasion to reflect on the harmonious development of all languages spoken in the country and their contributions to promoting friendship and mutual understanding among Kyrgyzstan’s diverse ethnic communities.
A Call to Protect and Promote the Kyrgyz Language
State Language Day serves both as a celebration of Kyrgyzstan’s cultural legacy and a reminder of the ongoing responsibility to nurture and strengthen the Kyrgyz language. It stands as a foundation for national unity and a sovereign future, encouraging every citizen to actively contribute to the preservation and flourishing of their mother tongue-the soul of the nation.
Diplomatic representatives from various countries and international organizations based in Kyrgyzstan extended their congratulations to the nation on this important day, underscoring the global recognition of Kyrgyzstan’s cultural and linguistic heritage.
Share on social media