I made a brief visit back in Karatau, Kazakhstan, in October, 1999, passing from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, heading to Talas, Kyrgyzstan. I was allowed to spend a night in Karatau to visit my Kazakh host family. It would be the last time I would see them. Volodya, my Russian driver, and I dropped my Kyrgyz assistant, Aelita, off at the bus station in Taraz. We both then headed to Karatau. My Kazakh mother was surprised to see me since she thought I would arrive in the morning. Then, as per Kazakh tradition, my driver and I were given a really good Kazakh lunch followed by more food. It was a memorable night.
The picture below was taken the next morning. I like this photo because it can show people why I was confused for being Kazakh my entire two years in Karatau. Many locals thought my host mother, Adigul in the purple robe, was my real mother. I think this similarity helped give me a unique perspective on the Kazakh culture. I was actually accepted in my host father’s clan, the Orshata (Baisara).
Yes, this day was cold but I left my fur hat inside the car by mistake. 🙂
Hello, Mr. Miller! My name is Bota and I was born in Karatau. And I know 2 persons in this photo, they are uncle Assan and his wife Atirkul. I’m so glad that our hospitality and Karatau left good impression. =))
Sorry, i meant on this photo). No, I am not. I’m in Almaty now. We’ve never met. I found this web-site by chance, by clicking on my birthplace in my facebook account. I recently saw them (0n 24th of March).
My facebook account: facebook.com/akbota.almaty
mail: [email protected]
Best regards, Bota
You are welcome! I think they are Looking forward to meeting you). I think it would be better if you will come to Karatau)).