Қыз ұзату

Meaning

Kyz uzatu is the moment a bride's family says goodbye to their daughter before she joins her husband's family. It is emotional, celebratory and often tearful: parents, grandparents and friends fill the evening with advice, blessings and music so that she leaves home surrounded by love.

What happens

1. 1

   The celebration is held at or by the bride's family, either at home or in a banquet hall, shortly before she departs.

2. 2

   The groom's relatives (the matchmakers, or kudalar) arrive and are welcomed with honour.

3. 3

   A long feast begins, with toasts and speeches from both families.

4. 4

   Songs are performed, including the traditional farewell song "Zhar-Zhar", sung as a call and response.

5. 5

   Elders give the bride blessings and advice for her new life.

6. 6

   The bride leaves with the groom's side, often accompanied by music and tears of joy.