The Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan is launching a new national literary competition for urban fiction, "Kala Khikayalary." The competition aims to identify and support new authors creating works about life in modern cities in Kazakhstan. Participants are invited to explore themes of urban culture, human destiny in urban spaces, social transformation, and the relationship between national identity and modern values ​​through fiction.

Citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan are eligible to participate. Previously unpublished novels on urban fiction, with a minimum length of 10 author's sheets (one author's sheet equals 40,000 printed characters), will be considered for consideration. Only one work per participant is allowed.
The winners will be selected by a selection committee consisting of renowned writers and public figures. The decision will be made by open vote.
Based on the results of the competition, the authors of the best works will be awarded cash prizes and diplomas. In addition, winning works will be published and distributed to libraries across the country, with a total circulation of 15,000 copies.
According to the competition regulations, the following prizes are provided:
1st place – $75,000;
2nd place – $50,000;
3rd place – $30,000;
Grand Prix – $100,000.

Competition entries will be accepted from September to December 2026 at the following address: Astana, Mangilik El Avenue, 8, Entrance 14, Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan. For additional information on participation, please call +7 (7172) 74 04 07 or +7 (7172) 74 04 08.