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Comic Con Astana 2025: Kazakhstan’s Premier Geek Culture Festival Set to Break Records

Geek culture has become a vibrant facet of Astana’s tourist appeal, and on July 9, the city kicked off the fourth edition of Comic Con Astana, Kazakhstan’s flagship festival for anime, comics, and cosplay. Over the years, festival-goers have become a familiar sight in the capital's summer streets, embodying characters from across the worlds of comics, gaming, and fantasy. While other Central Asian capitals, including Tashkent, have made similar attempts, it is Astana that has succeeded in establishing a sustainable and growing comic convention. The inaugural Comic Con Astana was held in 2019, but subsequent years were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the political turbulence of 2022. In 2023, however, the festival returned with renewed energy, drawing not only domestic fans but also international guests eager to meet Hollywood actors Michael Rooker and Sean Gunn, known for their roles as Yondu and Kraglin in Guardians of the Galaxy. The guest list also included top Eurasian video bloggers and prominent cosplayers, names that may be unfamiliar to the broader public, but are iconic within the global geek community. That year, organizers reported at least 60,000 attendees. [caption id="attachment_33875" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image: TCA[/caption] In 2024, the festival built on that momentum. A major highlight was the appearance of Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen, famed for his portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in the eponymous TV series, whose popularity kept him signing autographs late into the night, well past the scheduled program. He was joined by Canadian actor Percy Hynes White, who had recently risen to prominence through his role in Netflix’s Wednesday. Now, in 2025, Comic Con Astana is aiming to surpass its own benchmarks. [caption id="attachment_33876" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image: TCA[/caption] "This year, we decided to scale up and break our own record: two venues, Astana Arena and Barys Arena, and an extended five-day program," said Natalina Abrashkin, general producer of Comic Con Astana. "Every year, Comic Con grows in terms of guests, international stars, and economic impact. In 2025, we expect more than 75,000 attendees, including at least 10,000 foreign tourists." Organizers estimate that each foreign visitor spends around 118,000 KZT ($228) per day. With an average stay of three days, the festival is projected to generate over 3.5 billion KZT (nearly $7 million) in economic activity through accommodation, food, transportation, entertainment, and shopping. This year’s expanded program reflects that ambition. Even the two arenas may struggle to accommodate the crowds expected to attend appearances by three Hollywood stars: Andy Serkis, renowned for his motion-capture roles as Gollum in The Lord of the Rings and Caesar in Planet of the Apes, will headline. He will be joined by Esai Morales (Ozark, Titans, Mission: Impossible, La Bamba) and Scott Adkins (John Wick 4, Doctor Strange, Ip Man 4). Their public sessions are scheduled for the festival’s final weekend. [caption id="attachment_33877" align="aligncenter" width="1832"] Image: TCA[/caption] A central feature of Comic Con Astana remains the cosplay competition. This year, organizers have raised the prize fund to 15 million KZT ($29,000). Cosplay has been a cornerstone...

Education Culture Kyrgyz Language Russian Language public reaction

Experts Warn of Rights Violations in Kyrgyzstan’s Language Reform Push

The Jogorku Kenesh, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament, has adopted a sweeping package of 18 bills that overhaul the country’s language policy. The new measures significantly curtail the use of Russian, the official language, across key sectors including education, healthcare, the judiciary, and administrative processes. The legislation has drawn sharp criticism from both experts and the wider public. According to the government, the changes are necessary to align existing laws with the constitutional provisions on the state language, Kyrgyz. All 18 bills passed through parliament in a single session comprising three readings. They now await the signature of President Sadyr Japarov. Parliament Speaker Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu emphasized the urgency of the reforms, warning that the Kyrgyz language is in a “dangerous” state. “Many of us have children and grandchildren who do not speak Kyrgyz. This is shameful. If we continue to neglect our state language, we risk losing our national identity,” he said. Sweeping Language Reforms The adopted laws stipulate that individuals who do not speak Kyrgyz will be barred from holding a wide range of public positions, including parliamentary seats, government posts, judicial and prosecutorial roles, and employment at the National Bank. The legislation mandates Kyrgyz-language proficiency exams for students at the point of admission and grade-level advancement in schools and kindergartens. Public signage, geographic names, and announcements must now appear in Kyrgyz first, with Russian and other languages allowed only as supplementary. All notarized contracts must be drafted in Kyrgyz, with translation into other languages permitted only when necessary. State institutions, including medical facilities, must maintain records exclusively in Kyrgyz. Mounting Concerns Some lawmakers have voiced concerns over the practicality of these reforms. The deputy Gulya Kozhokulova cautioned that insufficient development of medical terminology in Kyrgyz could jeopardize patient safety due to potential errors in diagnoses and prescriptions. MP Dastan Bekeshev highlighted risks to citizens unfamiliar with Kyrgyz when handling legally binding documents, such as loan agreements. Under the new regulations, initial violations of language norms will result in warnings, with repeat offenses drawing fines of up to 17,000 KGS (approximately $200). Public Backlash The legislation has triggered a wave of criticism on social media and among civil society groups. At a roundtable hosted by the Oi Ordo Center for Expert Initiatives, participants asserted that the measures infringe on the rights of at least 1.5 million citizens. An open letter urging President Japarov to reject the legislation was submitted by members of the public, academia, and Bishkek City Council. “Most of the amendments initiated by the National Commission on the State Language lack public backing and have sparked criticism for sharply limiting the use of Russian in socially vital sectors,” the letter stated. Expert Commentary Speaking to The Times of Central Asia, Igor Shestakov, director of the Oi Ordo Center, warned that the amendments contain internal contradictions and ultimately undermine the Kyrgyz language’s development. “These measures primarily restrict the use of Russian. If implemented, they will have far-reaching consequences for banking, legal services, and education, affecting daily life and bureaucratic procedures....

Culture Tourism Mongolia CAMCA Forum

Kazakh Nomads and Authentic Tourism: Interview with Mongolia’s Cultural Envoy Dr. Gantemur Damba at CAMCA

This week The Times of Central Asia will be attending the CAMCA Regional Forum, which this year is being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The CAMCA network is a collection of professionals and policymakers dedicated to sharing ideas, knowledge and inspiration to develop the Eurasia region; its name stands for Central Asia, Mongolia, the Caucasus and Afghanistan. Ahead of the Forum, The Times of Central Asia spoke with Mongolia’s Cultural Envoy, and the Vice Chair of the Asian Ecotourism Network, Dr. Gantumur Damba, about the country's Kazakh nomads, and what the CAMCA program means for Mongolian culture and tourism. TCA: Central Asia is geographically quite close to Mongolia, but Mongolia's culture is distinct. What parts of Mongolian life do you think make journeys here unique for visitors? GD: Indeed. While Mongolia has some cultural similarities with Central Asia due to historical links, it has developed its own distinct identity. We are a unique culture with influences from Buddhism, shamanism and animism in our pastoralist herder’s way of life. Eastern Mongolia is rich in historical sites, including Deluun Boldog, where Genghis Khan was born, and the historical ruins of 13th and 14th-century towns. Central Mongolia is centered on the ancient town of Kharkhorum – with UNESCO-inscribed intangible cultural events – and the beautiful Orkhon Valley. This region is also enriched by Mongolian Buddhist traditions and architectural sites. North Mongolia is the home of nomadic reindeer herders, who have strong shamanistic beliefs. They are one of the last groups in the world to still herd reindeer as their primary way of life. Mongolia's largest ethnic minority are Kazakhs, who live in the country's western regions. What opportunities do visitors to Mongolia have to discover the Mongolian Kazakh way of life? The Kazakhs of Mongolia have distinct cultural practices, and live mainly in western Mongolia, particularly in Bayan-Ölgii province. While they share a common heritage with Kazakhs in Kazakhstan and other Central Asian nations, their experience in Mongolia is shaped by their minority status and the influence of Mongolian culture and Buddhism, alongside their own Turkic language and Islamic traditions. Activities like eagle hunting demonstration events, trekking in the Altai Mountains, and exploring authentic nomadic life offer unique travel experiences. Travelers can experience authentic nomad Kazakh culture through homestays, participating in festivals, and witnessing traditional crafts, traditional music, epic storytelling and vibrant dances like the eagle dance. What places and activities in Mongolia do you most recommend to foreign visitors? Are you working on any new destinations? Mongolia offers a high degree of freedom and flexibility for travelers, especially when it comes to camping and exploring the vast landscapes. There are relatively few restrictions on where you can go and camp, and you can often choose your own route and pace. However, choosing the right travel partner is vital. I categorize our destinations according to three “Ms”. The first M stands for modified places – basically those that are spoiled. That includes Terelj, Kharkhorum and West Khuvsgul Lake, where you will find many resorts,...

Culture Night at the Museum Kasteyev Museum

From Classic to Avant-Garde: How “Night at the Museum” in Almaty Bridged Eras

Last Sunday evening marked a notable event in Almaty’s cultural calendar. The A. Kasteyev State Museum of Art opened its doors after hours for the annual “Night at the Museum,” coinciding with International Museum Day on May 18. This day traditionally underscores the importance of museums as spaces of memory, dialogue, and inspiration. This year’s theme, “Tradition and Modernity in a Changing World,” was embodied in a dynamic and multifaceted program that transformed the museum into a vibrant dialogue between different eras and cultural layers. [caption id="attachment_31947" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] @TCA/Andrey Alimov[/caption] Visitors entering the museum in the evening found themselves immersed in an atmosphere where classical art harmoniously coexisted with contemporary interpretations. The space itself took on a new dimension, allowing the audience to engage with art beyond its typical daytime context. The evening’s program catered to a wide audience. In addition to the museum’s permanent collection, which features masterpieces of Kazakh and global art, guests participated in a variety of special events. Themed tours exploring the interplay of tradition and modernity offered deeper insight into the works on display, revealing new dimensions in the creativity of both Kazakhstani and international artists. [caption id="attachment_31955" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] @TCA/Andrey Alimov[/caption] Musical performances added to the ambiance, with live music enhancing the emotional experience and reinforcing the power of artistic expression. A standout feature of the night was a fashion show held in the museum’s central hall, where models showcased traditional Kazakh costumes with hand embroidery and gold accents, reimagined with a modern flair. These designs underscored how elements of cultural heritage continue to inspire and evolve in contemporary settings. The Kasteyev Museum, Kazakhstan’s largest art institution and a key player in Central Asia’s cultural scene, was established in 1976 and named after Abylhan Kasteyev, a pioneering figure in Kazakh visual art. The museum’s collection exceeds 25,000 pieces, spanning ancient decorative and applied arts to works by 20th- and 21st-century masters. It features not only Kazakh artists, but also significant works from Russian, European, and Eastern traditions. Through exhibitions, educational initiatives, and cultural events, the museum plays a central role in preserving and promoting artistic heritage. [caption id="attachment_31953" align="aligncenter" width="960"] @TCA/Andrey Alimov[/caption] “Night at the Museum” has grown into more than just an event, it is a celebration of art that unites generations, perspectives, and creative approaches. For one night, visitors experienced a space where history meets the present, and art became more accessible, resonant, and profound. It is noteworthy that similar events took place across Kazakhstan’s major cities. Official data indicates the country is home to around 300 museums, which collectively receive approximately 6.5 million visitors each year.

Culture Tulip Festival Kazakhstan Book of Records

Record-Breaking Carpet Unveiled at Tulip Festival in Kazakhstan

A massive felt carpet crafted by 100 master artisans has been officially recognized by the Kazakhstan Book of Records during the international “Qyzgaldaq Mura” (“Tulip Heritage”) festival in the Zhambyl region. Measuring 200 square meters, the carpet was created using the traditional wet felting technique and adorned with tulip motifs, symbolizing the region’s cultural identity. Renowned designer Aidarkhan Kaliev developed the carpet's ornamentation, celebrating both craftsmanship and the region’s natural heritage. The finished work will be installed under protective glass at Auliye-Ata Airport, where it is expected to become a regional cultural landmark. The festival attracted approximately 5,000 participants from Kazakhstan and abroad, including guests from Germany, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, the Netherlands, Russia, China, Turkey, and India. The event featured historical exhibitions, national games, artisan displays, and a vibrant concert program. The region’s tulip fields, home to 18 species, 10 of which are listed in the Red Book of endangered species, were a highlight for visitors. Despite its cultural success, the festival drew logistical criticism. Numerous attendees reported transportation difficulties, with some being dropped off 10 kilometers from the venue and forced to walk. Aspandiyar Seisebayev, head of the Zhambyl Region Department of Entrepreneurship and Tourism Development, attributed the issues to unexpectedly high turnout and challenging terrain in the mountainous area.

Culture rural libraries closure

Kyrgyzstan Proposes Closure of All Rural Libraries

Kyrgyzstan's Cabinet of Ministers has submitted a draft bill for public consultation that proposes the closure of all rural libraries across the country, citing declining readership and poor infrastructure as the primary reasons behind the move. According to the draft law, the heads of rural administrations are required to assess the operational efficiency and relevance of local libraries within three months. Libraries deemed underutilized or ineffective are to be closed, with their book collections transferred to school libraries in the same regions. The Ministry of Culture reports that Kyrgyzstan currently has 1,050 libraries: 859 rural, 9 regional, 64 district, and 116 urban. Of these, 51 libraries are considered structurally unsound, while 214 require major repairs. “Unfortunately, even those institutions that remain open often suffer from extremely low attendance. Data on the number of visitors and subscribers are often invalid and may be distorted, creating an illusion of library activity. This creates a misconception about the demand for services that do not actually meet the needs of the local population,” reads the bill’s explanatory note. The document’s authors estimate that over half of the country’s libraries are effectively non-operational and argue that functioning cultural institutions lack sufficient material and technical support. With the growth of digital technologies, traditional libraries, particularly in rural areas, are losing popularity, especially among younger generations, according to the proposal’s initiators.