The dombra is one of the most important symbols of Kazakhstan's national identity and cultural heritage. For centuries, this unique two-stringed instrument has preserved the history, traditions, and spiritual values of the Kazakh people, becoming an enduring emblem of the nation's musical culture.

According to archaeological and ethnographic research, instruments similar to the dombra have existed across the Eurasian steppes for several thousand years. The Altai Mountains, regarded as the cradle of the Turkic peoples, are widely recognized as the historical homeland of the dombra. Renowned scholar Akhmet Zhubanov described the instrument as the most treasured musical symbol of the Kazakh nation, whose rich sound conveys the emotions, history, and spirit of the Great Steppe.

The dombra is a two-stringed plucked instrument with multiple frets. Its main parts include the headstock, tuning pegs, neck, frets, soundboard, body, and bridge. Over time, different regions of Kazakhstan have developed distinctive styles of dombra craftsmanship and performance, reflecting local traditions and musical schools.

The dombra has played a central role in the development of the traditional art of kui performance. During the nineteenth century, the two major schools of Kazakh instrumental music—Tokpe and Shertpe—flourished through the works of legendary composers and performers, including Kurmangazy, Tattimbet, Dauletkerey, Kazangap, Dina Nurpeisova, Seitek, and Sugir.

Today, the dombra is more than a traditional musical instrument—it is a national cultural brand and a symbol of Kazakhstan's rich heritage. Contemporary musicians and professional orchestras continue to promote the dombra on international stages, introducing audiences around the world to the unique sound and artistic legacy of Kazakh traditional music.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-delhi/press/news/details/1251034?lang=ru