In the rugged valleys of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, an ancient cultural treasure thrives through the voices of storytellers. The Kirgiz epic Manas, recognized by UNESCO as part of humanity's intangible heritage, continues to resonate as both historical record and living art form.
Spanning over 230,000 lines, this oral masterpiece chronicles seven generations of heroes while preserving Kirgiz traditions, social values, and ecological wisdom. For 56-year-old inheritor Tuohenali, reciting Manas is more than performance – it's a sacred mission. “My great-grandfather taught me to let the epic flow like mountain springs,” he says, referencing legendary bard Jusup Mamay, whose 2009 passing left Tuohenali as a key torchbearer.
Modern preservation efforts blend tradition with innovation. Tuohenali now trains apprentices and collaborates with archivists to digitize recordings, ensuring the epic's survival in an era of rapid cultural change. “Each generation adds their voice while keeping the core alive,” he explains, comparing the process to “carving jade – preserving beauty while revealing new layers.”
As China strengthens cultural heritage protection, Manas serves as a bridge connecting the Kirgiz community's past to its dynamic present, offering scholars and global audiences unique insights into Central Asian traditions.
