Nauryz Celebrated in Kyiv as Part of the “Kitchen of Friendship” Initiative, Attended by the Ambassador of Kazakhstan

On March 21, Nauryz — the holiday of spring renewal — was celebrated in Taras Shevchenko Park in Kyiv. The event became part of the large-scale humanitarian initiative “Kitchen of Friendship,” launched within the framework of the “Yurta of Invincibility” project.

Nauryz is one of the most important holidays of the Kazakh people, celebrated on March 21–22. It symbolizes the beginning of the new year, the renewal of nature, and the unity of people.

For Kyiv residents and visitors, the organizers prepared a rich cultural program. Guests were treated to traditional Kazakh pilaf and freshly made baursaks. A choir performance created a special festive atmosphere. The celebration began with the ceremonial performance of the national anthems of Ukraine and Kazakhstan, highlighting the solidarity between the two nations.

The program continued with traditional songs, filling the heart of Kyiv with warmth and authenticity. Special attention was given to children, with a dedicated entertainment area and animators.

Diplomatic Support and Patronage

The celebration was attended by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Ukraine, Tolezhan Barlybayev. During the event, volunteers of the “Kitchen of Friendship” initiative and the “Yurta of Invincibility” project were honored for their daily efforts in supporting Ukrainians during difficult times.

The initiative was made possible thanks to the support of Kazakh patrons, particularly BI Group.

15,000 Portions of Pilaf for Frontline Communities

The Nauryz celebration in Kyiv marked an interim milestone of the large-scale tour of the “Kitchen of Friendship” across Ukrainian regions. Prior to the event, volunteers visited border and frontline communities, preparing more than 15,000 portions of traditional Kazakh pilaf.

Symbolically, the initiative started on March 9 in the village of Moryntsi — the birthplace of Taras Shevchenko. The project aims not only to provide people with hot meals after the winter but also to demonstrate solidarity between the people of Kazakhstan and Ukraine.

Next Stop — Dnipropetrovsk Region

Despite the conclusion of celebrations in the capital, the mission continues. This week, volunteers are actively working in the Dnipropetrovsk region, continuing to cook and share warmth and support from the people of Kazakhstan.