Nauryz in Stockholm: A Celebration of Light, Hope, and Cultural Dialogue

Nauryz in Stockholm: A Celebration of Light, Hope, and Cultural Dialogue

18.04.2025 01:44:01 484

On April 12, 2025, one of Stockholm’s leading cultural venues hosted a festive celebration of Nauryz — the ancient holiday of spring, renewal, and harmony. This vibrant event brought together over a hundred guests, including representatives of cultural and public organizations, as well as friends of Kazakhstan, united in a spirit of respect for cultural diversity and a shared commitment to mutual understanding.

The initiators and organizers of the event were the Association of Kazakhstan in Sweden “Dostar”, the Kazakh Cultural Association of Sweden, and the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Kingdom of Sweden.

Nauryz, symbolizing the beginning of a new life cycle and the rebirth of nature, became, on this day, a space for dialogue, cultural exchange, and the strengthening of human connections.

In their welcoming remarks, speakers emphasized the unifying and life-affirming nature of the holiday — its philosophy of reconciliation, hope, and reverence for tradition.

In opening the celebration, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan highlighted the importance of Nauryz as a symbol of peace and harmony, underscoring its unique role in fostering intercultural dialogue and deepening humanitarian ties between Kazakhstan and Sweden.

Guests were immersed in the warmth of Kazakh hospitality, with a rich spread of traditional cuisine — Nauryz-kozhe, plov, oriental sweets, and tea served in the style of the southern steppes. The program featured captivating musical performances with traditional instruments such as the dombra and kobyz, as well as spirited national dances in which both adults and children joyfully took part.

A particularly touching moment of the celebration was the participation of the Swedish fan club of Dimash Kudaibergen. Members performed a Swedish folk song in Kazakh and presented a Swedish translation of Abai’s poem “Köktem” (“Spring”). This heartfelt gesture became a symbol of cultural dialogue and mutual appreciation between the two nations.

The celebration also featured interactive thematic zones — including art workshops, karaoke, and a “Wall of Wishes.” Of special popularity was the photo zone with national costumes and traditional household items, offering guests the chance to not only capture memorable images but also experience the aesthetics of Kazakh culture firsthand.

The celebration of Nauryz in Sweden highlights the importance of preserving cultural traditions in a multicultural society and contributes to strengthening understanding and friendship among peoples. The event stood as a vivid testament to how cultural heritage can serve as a bridge for cooperation, respect, and mutual enrichment.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-stockholm/press/news/details/976003?lang=kk