ALDARKA AND THE TORGHUT KHAN IN BAYANGOL

Abstract

Aldarka was a Torghut Taij, the brother of the Torghut Khan, Buyantsogt, who was not only physically strong and heroic but also clever enough to challenge the Khan’s position. This situation worsened when the Dungan revolt swept across the Torghut region of Bayangol, where the Khan was unable to protect himself and his people. Thus, with the disagreements that emerged between the incapable Khan and the strong Taij, Aldarka was exiled by his brother to the deep Tenger Mountain. Many years later, when the Torghut Khan was hunting in the mountains, he realised that his Taij brother had survived and showed great respect for his ability. He apologised and invited him back to live with his family. After his return, Aldarka convened and saved many Torghuts scattered in various regions because of the Dungan revolt.