Asan of Kaiga and Altai

(Source: Katonkaragay – the land of legends: electronic resource / compiled by Zhumagulova Gulzira Dauletkhanovna. – Ust-Kamenogorsk: Reklamnyy daydzhest, 2024. – 176 p.)

Asan Kaigi Sabituly (late 14th – early 15th century) was a statesman, akyn, zhyrau, biologist and philosopher. He was an advisor to Khan Janibek.

The name Asan Kaiga is associated with the desire for a better future for the people. He believed that there was a place on earth worthy of being called paradise – Zheruyk. This is a land inaccessible to enemies. The cattle there know no pestilence, the pastures are plentiful, the waters are clean, and nature is generous. There is no hostility and strife in this land – everyone lives in peace, equality and harmony.

Feeling in his heart that such a place exists, Asan Kaigy set out to find Zheruyik. He saddled his faithful faith and began to wander the four corners of the world. He evaluates every meeting, mountain and relationship, saying that it brings benefit to the people.

According to legend, when Asan Kaigy reached Altai, he exclaimed: “Your winter is half a year, your summer is half a year, and both above and below the ground you are full of gold, you are a real paradise on earth!” It is believed that it was after these words that the area received its name – Altai – “Golden Mountains”.