Research On Agriculture, Animal Husbandry And Hunting Folklore Of Tengritag Mountain District In Kumul

Tengritag is a typical Uyghur mountain district of Kumul, with animal husbandry the mainstay of the rural economy while agriculture is complementary. The distinctive lifestyle and mode of production of the villagers have been formed over centuries of adaptation to this upland environment.Based on information obtained from field research and written sources and focusing on Tengritag district, the dissertation explores the folklore of hunting, animal husbandry and agriculture, together with recent changes in all three activities.The dissertation is divided into three parts:1. The folklore of hunting. These villagers have accumulated abundant experience based on observing and understanding their living environment, as a result of which they have created a hunting culture which is in harmony with that environment. The dissertation analyses the hunting culture in all its dimensions and explains its present condition.2. Yada tilesh (prayer for rain). Animal husbandry and agriculture both depend directly on adequate water supplies. In times of drought, the villagers hold a collective rainmaking ritual known as Yada tilesh. The social and cultural functions of this ritual are discussed in detail.3. The folklore of animal husbandry and agriculture. The villagers have developed a distinctive symbiosis of animal husbandry and agriculture. The dissertation discusses the customs of prairie life and the changing rituals of husbandry and agriculture. Particular attention is paid to the contents and functions of Risale pamphlets in both sectors.