26 March 2025 | 11:00 - 12:00 (MDT)
Open Session - ON-SITE ONLY
Room: Indigenous Pavilion
Organizers: Denis Dabaev (University of Northern Iowa) & Sardaana Barabanova Studio of documentary films Күн оҕолоро (Children of the Sun)
Games play an important role in any culture, but especially among indigenous peoples who transfer knowledge and traditions orally and through practice. Many of the Indigenous games have deep historical roots, reflecting the peculiarities of the lives of ancestors. Games become a link between generations, preserving and developing elements of traditional culture and connecting generations. During this event, participants will learn about Buryat-Mongolian and Sakha games. Shagai naadan is a dice game, one of the most ancient games of the Buryat people. This sport symbolizes friendship, development, and fertility. The game includes symbols of 5 types of livestock important for Buryats and Mongols in general: temeen (camel), khonin (sheep), ukher (cow), morin (horse), and yamaan (goat). Through this game, participants show appreciation for these cattle but also develop fine motor skills.
Shagai naadan is a dice game, one of the most ancient games of the Buryat people. This sport symbolizes friendship, development, and fertility. The game includes symbols of 5 types of Buryat livestock: temeen (camel), khonin (sheep), ukher (cow), morin (horse), and yamaan (goat).
Khabylyk is an ancient game of the Sakha people from Northeast Siberia, traditionally played with sticks used for lighting the komuluok, a conventional wood stove. To play, 30 sticks are thrown up one by one, and the objective is to catch as many sticks as possible within two minutes. Although the game may appear to be a simple form of entertainment, it has a profound philosophy. The Sakha people have a saying, "Sakha will not miss out a white bird above, and a grey mouse underneath," which reflects their belief that all living beings must be prepared to catch and hunt to survive.
Playing shagai and khabylyk enables individuals to develop essential skills, including quick reflexes, strong hands, keen eyesight, and acute mental focus. For children, playing these games is a vital part of their preparation for adulthood, as it teaches them the skills necessary for hunting, fishing, and herding. Furthermore, khabylyk promotes decision-making and self-control, encouraging players to catch only what they need, rather than grabbing everything.