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BALBAL STONE STATUE BURIAL MONUMENTS IN HOBOGSAIR


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Authors

Bulag, Uradyn E. 
Fuerwa, Dorjraa 

Abstract

This video explores the material cultural heritage of the Hobogsair region, particularly the balbal stones that are believed to have been erected during the Turkic era, predating the Mongol period. Local herders believe that these balbals, identified as male and female based on their size and shape, serve as protectors of their ancient ancestors’ tombs. However, Kazakhs who graze their livestock in the region believe that these stones may belong to the ancestors of the Mongols. On the other hand, Mongols appear less interested in investigating their historical roots, and some of these balbals have even been taken away by individuals who do not recognise or care about the importance of the region's material heritage. In Central Asian and Mongolian cultures, a “balbal” refers to a standing stone or stone statue, often carved with anthropomorphic features. These historical and cultural artifacts are discovered across various regions, including Mongolia, Kazakhstan, China, and other Central Asian countries. In our recent video, we explored two significant balbals in Hobogsair – a mature one and smaller, child-like figure. These stone statues we found are in pastoral areas, where Kazakhs herders from Jimnai county graze their livestock. Conversation with these herders, who were camping near the balbals, revealed intriguing insights suggesting a cultural legacy predating both Mongols and Kazakhs. While our video focused on two existing balbals on Sair Mountain in Hobogsair, it is crucial to acknowledge that many more once dotted the landscape. Unfortunately, over time, a lack of protection and reverence has led to the gradual disappearance of these historical artifacts.

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Keywords

Balbal Stone, Turkic, Ancient Ancestor Tomb, Hobogsair, Material Cultural Heritage

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Publisher

Kalmyk Cultural Heritage Documentation Project, University of Cambridge

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Sponsorship
Sponsored by Arcadia Fund, a charitable fund of Lisbet Rausing and Peter Baldwin.