Manas Epic
Listed in National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2006
Overview
Heroic epic with a grand scale of 600,000 lines, telling the story of eight generations of the Manas family defending their homeland. The spiritual totem of the Kyrgyz people.
Manas Introduction Video
Historical Origins
The Manas Epic is one of the world's longest oral epics, originating from the Kyrgyz people's struggle for unity and independence. It has been transmitted by Manaschi (epic singers) for over a thousand years across the Pamir and Tianshan regions.
Artistic Features
Comprising approximately 600,000 lines, the epic narrates the heroic deeds of Manas, his son Semetei, and grandson Seitek across eight generations. It encompasses Kyrgyz history, culture, philosophy, and social customs.
Current Status
Protected with dedicated research centers established in Xinjiang. Regular epic recitation competitions are held to encourage young Manaschi to learn and perform the epic.