The Ministry of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic has developed a draft regulation governing the conduct of toev and memorial events. The document has been submitted for public discussion.
The draft aims to reduce excessive spending, prevent unhealthy competition in society and reduce social tension. The document proposes to regulate various events, such as wedding celebrations, bride's farewells, cradle-laying and cord-cutting ceremonies, as well as funerals and memorial events.
It is noted that wedding celebrations should be held within the financial means of the newlyweds and their parents, without taking out loans or credits.
Recommendations for weddings:
- Weddings should be held within the financial means of the newlyweds and their parents, without incurring debts or loans;
- Limit the number of guests to 200 people;
- Hold the wedding within one day;
- Do not organise events that require excessive phased and additional costs;
- Do not allow large-scale weddings (more than 350 people);
- Do not allow excessive food preparation;
- Limit the slaughter of one head of cattle or one horse.
The following are not permitted:
- Events that contradict national traditions and moral norms;
- Humiliating, rude and inappropriate jokes;
- The glorification of ostentatious wealth and competition;
- Wedding processions consisting of more than three cars;
- Fireworks and excessive show programmes;
- Coercion to give expensive gifts.
The following is recommended when conducting funerals and memorial services:
- An event on the day of the funeral without the slaughter of livestock and without limiting the number of participants;
- Holding an anniversary memorial service is not mandatory and is voluntary;
- It is explained that the main essence of the events is prayer, patience and unity;
- Through representatives of the clergy, explanations are given regarding excessive celebrations that do not comply with Sharia law;
- Food safety and sanitary and hygiene standards must be observed.
- During subsequent memorial services, the slaughter of small livestock or, at the discretion of the organisers, a horse or a single head of cattle is permitted;
- Preparation of a modest table;
- Only the closest relatives of the deceased should be invited to memorial events.
- Instead of holding a memorial service, it is recommended to engage in charity work, make donations to mosques or for public needs.
