Page 69 - bne Magazine August 2022

bne August 2022 Eurasia I 69
Interviews with a cross-section of people ranging from young working professionals to retirees, city inhabitants, countryside people, wrestlers, archers and monks were conducted on the matter. The conclusion was that even though interviewees differed to some degree in their personal interpretation of the importance of Naadam, they all not only supported Naadam, but assumed everyone else did
living in Ulaanbaatar from 2006 to 2007, I felt those city people also respect their culture, history and traditions as we
do. Their lifestyle, vision, perspective and culture could be a little bit different than ours; however, we live in the same country. I think everyone feels that Naadam is important in Mongolia.” She went on to comment on the unifying nature of Naadam as everyone who
is important since it is made of our history and culture over the years.”
When asked about the cultural importance of Naadam, the respondents provided somewhat differing answers, which provided insights into the nation’s culture.
Forty-five-year-old archer Boldbaatar regards Naadam as a commemoration of the strength of the ancestors, and an opportunity for him to continue an ancient tradition. "Because of Naadam, I’ve realised how strong our elders were, and we have so many important things to respect. Naadam made me an official archer."
Naadam is also a way of educating the next generation of Mongolians about their culture and heritage according to Urin Baasansuren, a 56-year-old retired school teacher. "Naadam plays a huge role in teaching the young generation about our history because it takes place on Revolu- tion Day [commemorating 11 July 1921], which commemorates independence from Manchu (now part of China). Secondly, the three games of men show our nomadic culture from the Chingis Khaan [Geng- his Khan] era to the present which is an important part of our nation."
The festival holds patriotic and historical importance for some as well.
“No matter who you are or where you live, people feel Naadam or any other holiday is important since it is made of our history and culture over the years”
as well. This demonstrates how Naadam is integral to Mongolian culture.
Nandinsuvd Batchimeg, a 22-year-old accountant in Ulaanbaatar, believed that all city people “feel that Naadam is important”. Sixty-three-year-old retiree Otgonbayar similarly said: “Every city person attaches importance to Naadam. They also go to their birthplace or their family in the countryside [during the event].”
A 45-year-old school teacher in the province of Uvs explained: “When I was
speaks the language becomes one group to enjoy Naadam every year, regardless of who they are or what they do for a living.
Some Mongolians see participating in Naadam as a preservation and transmission of culture.
Batbileg, a 39-year-old wrestler holding the title “Lion of Aimag”, said: “You should always know your history, culture, and tradition if you identify as a Mongolian. No matter who you are or where you live, people feel Naadam or any other holiday
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