AMusical genreIndependent states
Art of the Akyns
The improvised verbal art of Kyrgyz folk poets and epic tellers, on UNESCO's intangible heritage list since 2008.
An akyn is a folk poet who composes and sings verse on the spot to the komuz. In nomadic society akyns spread news, criticised injustice and celebrated heroes.
The tradition also includes epic tellers — the manaschy who recite Manas from memory. A verbal contest between two akyns is called aitysh, inscribed by UNESCO together with Kazakhstan in 2015.
UNESCO inscribed the "Art of Akyns, Kyrgyz epic tellers" in 2008. Toktogul Satylganov is regarded as the greatest of the Kyrgyz akyns.
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Updated: October 3, 2026