Kuda tusu is one of the central traditions associated with a Kazakh wedding. Its main purpose is to formally introduce and bring together the families of the future spouses.

After a couple has decided to marry, the groom's relatives traditionally visit the bride's family. They are welcomed with a meal, and the two sides discuss the upcoming wedding and their new relationship as relatives.

Traditional matchmaking included a number of special roles, gifts and rituals. The most respected representative of the visiting party acted as the senior matchmaker. Families exchanged presents and performed customs that could vary considerably from one region to another.

The occasion was not limited to serious negotiations. Songs, jokes, games and friendly competitions helped the two families become acquainted.

Today kuda tusu remains a popular tradition, but its meaning has evolved. It is no longer understood as parents deciding the future of their children. Rather, it is a meeting of two families after the couple themselves have chosen to marry.

Under current Kazakhstan law, marriage is based on the free and full consent of both spouses.

Modern kuda tusu therefore represents family respect, hospitality and the beginning of a new relationship between two families.