Turkmenistan's 'heavenly' Akhal-Teke horses celebrated in annual beauty pageants
Summary
Turkmenistan holds annual beauty contests for its Akhal-Teke horses, a rare and ancient breed considered a national symbol. These prized horses are protected by the state and celebrated as part of the country’s culture and identity, with strong government support and international recognition by UNESCO.Key Facts
- The Akhal-Teke horse is an ancient and endangered breed native to Turkmenistan.
- Turkmenistan organizes yearly beauty pageants to showcase and honor these horses.
- The Akhal-Teke is seen as a symbol of national pride and is featured on the country’s flag and coat of arms.
- The breed and its culture are listed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
- The ruling family in Turkmenistan strongly promotes the horses, with President Serdar Berdymukhamedov leading events.
- The country tightly controls media access and public expression, maintaining strong state control.
- Horse breeder Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, father of the current president, wrote a rap song about one of his horses.
- Most of the world’s 4,000-7,000 Akhal-Tekes are kept on state-run farms in Turkmenistan.
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