Meet Asilbek Manaa, the Fifth Generation of Eagle Hunter in Mongolia

What makes us unique is our culture and tradition, don't you agree? You have probably heard about the unbelievable eagle hunting tradition of Ethnic Kazakhs which exist in Mongolia today. Thanks to the "The Eagle Huntress" documentary, the eagle hunting tradition has got attention from every corner of the world and became one of the main reasons to travel to Mongolia. Let us introduce the fifth generation of eagle hunter Asilbek Manaa from Sagsai village, Bayan-Ulgii province. The long-standing tradition of his family is not so popular among eagle hunters. Many people had lost the eagle hunting tradition during the Socialist regime in Mongolia to make a living. So let's dive into the story of Asilbek and his family. 

Son of the very first winner of the "Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia"

Asilbek's late father Manaa won the "Golden Eagle Festival", which was held the first time in 2000. Then he proved his success by winning the tournament again in the following year in 2001. Mr. Manaa was arguably one of the best eagle hunters of all time. His knowledge and experience has passed to his sons, including Asilbek who is master of coin grabbing from the grouns while on horseback /called as Tenge Ilu/ and skillful eagle hunter. 

Part of the big family

Asilbek's parents have a big family. He is the 6th child of the family of 11 children. His three brothers are also eagle hunters and they are teaching their kids how to do eagle hunting. Asilbek has 3 children, and it is no doubt that the eagle hunting tradition will be carried into the next generation.

Following his father's footstep despite having a degree

He has got a bachelor's degree in electrical engineer from the Mongolia University of Science and Technology. But he did not stay in the big city like others, instead he came back to his village to become eagle hunter just like his father and grandfather. His true passion brought him back to be eagle hunter.

The eagle hunter with big heart 

Asilbek plays important part in the community both as administrative official and tradition keeper /eagle hunter/. He is currently head of 4th bag /small administrative unit/ of Sagsai village. His ambition is to develop the region and to promote eagle hunting tradition. Asilbek's contribution to organization of the "Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival" is enormous. Our team is grateful to have this humble guy's help during the festival.   

Hope this beautiful culture will lasts long and long time by the descendants of the Kazakh hunters with the help of culture lovers from around the world like you.