One of the highlights of the QOSTANAI CREATIVE CULTURE creative fair, held at the Qazaq Creative Hub, was the unique opportunity to see the Altyn Dombyra, the highest award in Kazakh aitys. For the first time, the legendary symbol of victory was presented not only in the recipient's region but also to a wider audience in the capital.
Renowned aityska (aityska) artist and Altyn Dombyra winner, PhD in Philology Aibek Kaliyev, arrived from the Kostanay region specifically to participate in the fair. Along with the top Kazakh aitys award, he brought to Astana the history, traditions, and spirit of national art.
Throughout the day, a steady stream of visitors flocked to the Altyn Dombyra. Guests took photos with the legendary award, examined it closely, and listened with interest to the winner's account of the symbol's significance to Kazakh culture. For many, this was their first encounter with a relic they had previously known about only from television broadcasts of aitys.
From the stage, Aibek Kaliyev spoke not only about his creative path but also about the power of national art, which unites generations and preserves the historical memory of the people. He devoted special attention to the national project Creative Aimaq, noting its importance in popularizing Kazakhstan's cultural heritage.
"Creative Aimaq is a project that unites tradition and modernity. It reveals the rich heritage of our people to young people, introduces residents and visitors to the creative potential of the regions, and gives new impetus to the development of national culture," the poet noted.
According to Aibek Kaliyev, after winning the 2025 national aitys, he made an important decision to ensure that as many people as possible could see "Altyn Dombyra." "It is a great honor for me to present the Altyn Dombyra in Astana. Previously, this award was kept only in the winner's region. Today, everyone can see it with their own eyes, feel the spirit of aitys, and touch one of the most revered relics of Kazakh art. This is another step toward popularizing our national values," he emphasized.
Aibek Kaliyev was born in 1978 in the village of Tawish in the Torgai region. He graduated with honors from the L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University and, for many years, combined research, teaching, and creative work. Today, he is rightfully considered one of the most prominent representatives of the modern Kazakh aitys school.
The Creative Aimaq project brings together talented artisans, designers, artists, jewelers, musicians, and representatives of creative industries from all regions of the country. Its main goal is to demonstrate that national heritage can have a contemporary resonance, inspire a new generation, and become part of the cultural life of major cities. That's why the appearance of the Altyn Dombyra at the Qazaq Creative Hub became more than just a display of a rare award, but a symbol of a living connection between generations. Here, history ceased to be a museum exhibit—it found itself close to people, a reminder that true national values ​​live on as long as they are proudly displayed and shared with society.