New Olonkho books revive Yakut heroic traditions for young generations

Three new books rooted in the Yakut heroic epic Olonkho were unveiled at Yakutsk’s P.A. Oiunsky Literary Museum. The event marked a significant moment for local culture, drawing attention from performers, activists, and officials. It was timed to align with the 2025 Olonkho Decade celebrations. The books presented were Valentin Isakov’s Subedeiine and Arsaalan Bakshiila and Ikki Olokhho, along with Pyotr Tikhonov’s Ottoy Bootur. Isakov’s first work is a translation of the German-recorded shamanic epic Doledai – Lord of the Mountains. His second book, Ikki Olokhho, features two children’s Olonkhos designed for young boys and girls.

Tikhonov’s Ottoy Bootur is aimed at young Olonkho performers and children. Both authors are deeply connected to the tradition: Isakov is a professional Olonkhosut, an actor at the Olonkho Theater, and a scholarship recipient from the Yakutia Head. Tikhonov, a respected Olonkhosut and Algyschyt, leads a group of artists dedicated to preserving and promoting Yakut culture.

The presentation was moderated by Maiia Vlasyeva, head of the literary and dramatic division at the Olonkho Theater. Maria Turantayeva, First Deputy Minister of Culture and Spiritual Development of Yakutia, publicly commended both authors for their efforts in advancing the epic tradition. The event highlighted the ongoing commitment to keeping the Olonkho tradition alive. The new books provide fresh material for young performers and readers. They also contribute to the broader cultural goals of the 2025 Olonkho Decade.